Launch of Teesside uniform scheme to help parents with costs

School uniform charity Uniting Uniforms has partnered with healthcare provider Ramsay Health Care UK to collect and distribute pre-loved uniforms to children across the Tees Valley.

The programme will see pupils at several schools receive packs of donated uniforms, with a particular focus on reception-age children preparing to start school.

The first collection bin has been installed at Tees Valley Hospital as part of a pilot project, with Ramsay Health Care UK employees volunteering to collect, clean and sort donated clothing before it is distributed to families.

Uniform donation bins will be installed across Teesside for volunteers to collect pre-loved uniforms and redistribute them to families in need. (Image: Uniting Uniforms)

The launch comes as concerns over the cost of school uniforms continues to grow.

According to Department for Education figures, parents spend an average of £343 on uniforms for each primary school child.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “I am always proud to see businesses in the Tees Valley stepping up for the families and communities they are part of.

“The cost of school uniforms is a pressure on household budgets right across the region and this is exactly the kind of practical, local partnership that can make a difference where it counts.

“Every child deserves to start school feeling ready and proud; initiatives like this help make that a reality for more of our young people across the region.”

Ramsay Health Care UK said the project reflects its commitment to supporting the communities it serves beyond healthcare.

Nick Costa, chief executive officer at Ramsay Health Care UK, said: “Every parent wants to see their child walk through the school gates ready to learn and proud of how they look.

"But for too many families in the communities we serve, the cost of uniform is becoming a barrier to that.”

Emma Southard, founder of Uniting Uniforms, said the charity hopes the partnership will allow it to reach more families in need.

She said: “As a charity, we believe no child should ever feel excluded or start school at a disadvantage simply because of the cost of a uniform.

“We hope every child who receives a pack this year walks into school feeling that little bit more ready for the day ahead.”

The charity hopes the scheme will not only help to reduce financial pressures on parents but also to improve pupils' confidence, attendance and readiness for school.