Wakefield to invest £2 million to support families with the cost of school uniform
Monday, March 16, 2026
Wakefield Council will invest £2 million into a support scheme launching in summer 2026.
It will help Wakefield families with school uniform costs, make sure every child starts the year confident and ready to learn.
This new school uniform support scheme will give families a contribution towards the cost of school uniform for all school-age children. It’s a practical way for the Council to support families with rising costs during a time when the summer holidays place extra pressure on household budgets.
“We know starting a new school year can put real pressure on family budgets.
"We're committed to removing barriers to education, so every child is supported to attend school every day with the opportunity to thrive. This investment is about giving every family a little extra help and making sure every child and young person is ready to learn.”
Councillor Margaret Isherwood
Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
The scheme, funded through the newly approved District Investment Fund, will provide a universal contribution to all school age children living in the Wakefield district and attending a state-run or Academy school. Around 50,000 children of school age will benefit, receiving £30 for every primary-aged pupil, and £50 for every secondary-aged pupil.
This initiative is part of the Council’s District Investment Fund, a £4.3 million commitment to invest during 2026-27. It will help families with the cost of school uniforms and childcare. Improve access to training and leisure opportunities for our young people. Contribute more to our work to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. And provide our most vulnerable pensioners with seasonal cost of living support.
Full details on eligibility and how families will receive the support will be shared ahead of the launch in summer 2026.