By Jack Sargeant

MS for Alyn and Deeside

As the summer holidays come to an end and we prepare for children to go back to school it’s important to highlight support available to parents who may be struggling with the accompanying costs.

Applications are currently open for Uniform Grant for the 2021/22 academic year on the Flintshire County Council website, funded through the Welsh Government’s pupil development grant.

The Uniform Grant can be used to help to pay for school uniforms, sports kit or items related school activities.

For children in Reception and years 1, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 11, grants of £125 are available whilst those starting secondary school can receive £200.

In order to be eligible to apply parents must already be in receipt of, or applying for, Free School Meals.

The Funding is also available to all looked after children (Foster Care) of compulsory school age and pupils with no recourse to public funds.

For more information and to apply for the Grant please head to the Council website or email FreeSchoolMeals@flintshire.gov.uk for enquiries.

I’d also really encourage anyone with unwanted or unused uniform to consider donating to Flintshire’s Uniform Exchange.

All donated school uniform will be available for sale in Nightingale House Hospice shops throughout Flintshire at a fraction of high street prices, helping to reduce the cost of schooling and cut down on waste. Uniform can be donated at schools locally or taken to any Hospice shop.

Finally, I’d like to say thank you to all teachers, teaching assistants and support staff who have worked so hard under incredibly difficult circumstances over the last 18 months.

Your dedication and commitment to providing children with high quality education throughout the pandemic has been inspirational.

I know we will all be hoping for a brighter future ahead as we enter the new school year.

Should you need my support with issues concerning education or any other matter please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing Jack.Sargeant@Senedd.Wales and my team and I will do our best to assist you.