As the new school year approaches, many families are starting to think about uniforms, school shoes and everything else children need for September.

While preparing for a new term is an exciting milestone, it can also place extra pressure on family budgets. School uniforms are often one of the biggest back-to-school expenses, particularly if you're buying for more than one child.

The good news is that buying everything brand new isn't the only option.

What is a school uniform bank?

School uniform banks provide good-quality, pre-loved school uniforms to families at little or no cost.

Many are run by schools, local charities, community groups or volunteers who collect donated uniforms that children have outgrown. Items are then cleaned, sorted and made available for other families to use.

You can often find blazers, jumpers, trousers, skirts, PE kits, coats and other school essentials, helping families reduce the cost of preparing for a new school year.

Why consider a school uniform bank?

Choosing pre-loved uniforms can offer several benefits. It can help reduce back-to-school costs, make uniforms more affordable for growing children and support more sustainable shopping by giving good-quality clothing a second life.

Many families use school uniform banks simply because they're a practical and cost-effective way to prepare for the new school year.

Many families choose to mix new and pre-loved items. You might buy a new blazer or school shoes while picking up jumpers, PE kits or spare uniform from a local uniform bank. It can be a simple way to reduce costs without compromising on quality.

Find a school uniform bank near you

To make it easier for families to access this support, FTCT has created a free School Uniform Bank Directory.

The directory brings together school uniform banks and community schemes from across the UK, helping you find local options in your area.

Whether you're looking for a complete school uniform or just a few replacement items, it's a great place to start before buying everything new.

Looking for more back-to-school support?

Alongside our School Uniform Bank Directory, we've also created a free Back-to-School Checklist to help families stay organised as they prepare for the new school year.

If you work, or have worked, in the UK fashion or textile industry and you're worried about the cost of school uniforms or other back-to-school essentials, it may also be worth checking whether your family could be eligible for support through FTCT.

Are you a parent struggling financially?

We believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, which is why we provide grants to support families during challenging times.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible if:

• you work or have recently worked for a UK fashion or textile employer, and
• you are caring for a child under 18.

FTCT supports families experiencing financial difficulties due to:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement
• Being rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Long-term low income and ongoing financial pressure

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants can contribute towards:

• Clothing and school uniforms
• Bedroom furniture
• Study equipment, including laptops
• White goods and essential household items
• Specialist or sensory equipment
• Therapy and wellbeing support

Don’t work in fashion or textiles?

If you have never worked for a UK fashion or textile company, unfortunately we won't be the right charity for you. Please try this list of other charities who might be able to help your family.

Related FTCT support

You might also be interested in:

Making School Uniform Costs More Manageable

Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know

Making the Summer Holidays More Manageable on a Budget