School uniforms help on offer for Cannock families
Families in Cannock are getting a helping hand thanks to a new project giving them access to free pre-used school uniforms.
The Pre-Loved Uniform Market allows families to collect items of clothing at key dates during the year to help support them with their children’s school uniform needs.
The project is being run by Staffordshire County Council’s libraries service in partnership with The Salvation Army and is funded through county council community funding.
The first market in August was a huge success, helping 279 children access free clothing items, saving families in the area an estimated £13,950 .
Phil Hewett, cabinet support member for communities at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Our local community funding is all about giving the community a chance to take the lead on the projects that matter to them most and this is a great example of how the funding can benefit local people.
“It’s a really simple idea that’s directly helping local families in Cannock get access to pre-used uniforms.
"Not only is this helping families save money themselves, it’s also helping the environment too as there’s less clothing going to the tip and landfill.
"We were all pleased to be able to support the project with our funding and it proves how relatively small amounts of money can have a big impact on local communities.”.
Lydia Bartlett, captain of The Salvation Army Church in Cannock, added: "Removing barriers to education can be as simple as providing the correct jumper or pair of trousers.
"This year we have seen such disruption to children’s education, due to the pandemic. Let us all play our part in ensuring as many children as possible have a good and settled classroom experience.”
The next market will be available at The Salvation Army Church and Community Centre in Cannock from Monday, 25 to Friday, 29 October from 11am to 1pm each day.
