Britain’s largest public service trade union, UNISON, is set to launch its annual School Uniform Grant Fund in conjunction with the union’s welfare charity, There For You.

Julie Tudor, Bolton Unison Branch Welfare Officer said: “This fund is set up each year to help union members in difficulty with the cost of school uniforms. Many of our members are really struggling financially as lone parents or because of part time working and low pay. A lot of our members continue to struggle to make ends meet Families will already be worrying about their children returning to school in September so we are encouraging members who are worried about uniform costs to get in touch. There are limited funds available and there is a strict criteria in place”.

The UNISON fund will offer £75 vouchers per school-aged child for members on a low income. UNISON anticipates high demand, and members are advised to check the eligibility criteria and save the date. Applications will be open twice on Wednesday 29 May, at 8.30am and 5pm.

UNISON members wishing to apply will need their membership number.

Further details are available via the UNISON website:

www.unison.org.uk/get-help/services-support/there-for-you

Julie concluded, “As with every year, the UNISON funds to support members in difficulty are limited, we strongly advise eligible members to apply as soon as possible”.