Thousands of Cardiff families could be eligible for financial support to help cover the cost of school uniforms, equipment and other essential items, but many may be missing out.

Cardiff Council is encouraging parents and carers to check whether they are eligible for the Welsh Government's School Essentials Grant, which provides financial support to families on lower incomes with children from Reception through to Year 11.

Eligible families can receive £125 per learner, with £200 available for learners entering Year 7 to help with the additional costs associated with starting secondary school.

The grant can be used to help pay for school uniforms, school bags, stationery, sports kit, equipment for after-school activities and outdoor learning, as well as other items needed to support a child's education and participation in school life.

Parents and carers can apply once per child each school year and are encouraged to check their eligibility as soon as possible.

Alongside providing financial support to families, successful applications also help schools unlock additional funding to support learners, and can be used to provide additional educational support, resources and opportunities that help pupils thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

The School Essentials Grant is available to eligible families with children in Reception to Year 11 who receive free school meals because they are in receipt of certain benefits.

Families can check their eligibility and submit an application by visiting: School Essentials Grant - Cardiff Council

As well as school uniform costs, the grant can help towards:

• Classroom essentials, including pens, pencils and school bags
• Sports kit, musical instruments and equipment for after-school activities
• Specialist equipment for curriculum activities such as design and technology
• Outdoor learning and educational trips, including waterproof clothing
• Essential clothing and equipment for residential visits
• Uniforms for enrichment activities such as Scouts, Guides, Cadets, sports clubs, performing arts and dance activities
• In limited circumstances, laptops or tablets where a school is unable to provide loan equipment

Additional support for Cardiff families

The School Essentials Grant is just one of a range of support measures available to help families with the cost of education. Eligible pupils can also benefit from free school meals, including the ongoing expansion of eligibility for secondary school learners, helping families save money while ensuring children have access to a healthy and nutritious meal during the school day.

Families are encouraged to check what support they may be entitled to and apply for free school meals where eligible. For more information visit: Free school meals - Cardiff Council