Back to school and uniforms

[Drummerma]

Name changed as I'm embarrassed

So I'm a mum of 4 boys they are 16, 10, 8 and 6.

Ex has left me and isn't paying maintenance as he's unemployed.

My eldest is going to college and doesn't have to wear uniform so that's good but will still have to give him money for lunch and buy him a bus pass.

My 10 year old is going into year 6 and needs new shirts, shoes (his shoes from last year are falling apart) and he is going to take his own lunch but is going to use his old lunchbox and school bag from last year

8 year old is going into year 4 and needs jumpers, trousers, shoes (his shoes are also falling Apart) and a new lunchbox as his zip has fallen off.

6 year old needs trousers, shoes (his are small) and a coat (that's small aswell)

Plus the younger 3 need things for lunches. No idea how I'm going to do it as I've only got £20 to last until next week and they go back next week

I've asked ex and he's said no even though I know he's got money as he's just bought a new car.

I have no family/friends I can ask

Any advice??

32.20? £2.20, sigh.

Can the school not help? eBay never worth it with ridiculous postage but charity shops usually have some in.

Local Councils have uniform grants they can give discretionary - please ask at school or via the phone to the council. Also I would speak to social services or someone like your GP who can do food bank referrals and also put you in touch with various organisations who can help in these circumstances

I would also say ask at school re uniform as often they have access to second hand or know somewhere that does. Or check if the parents have a facebook or similar page where you can ask.

I would make the children have school dinners if they will be free. It saves you a substantial amount right there, if they are hungry they will eat it.

There will be loads of school shoes that are about to go off to charity so it’s worth asking on local sites. Same for the uniform. We’ve got bags we’re just about to get rid of that no one wanted even for free. Set up an account on FB with a fake name if you prefer and just ask for everything - the coat too. Also, if the school didn’t get rid of their lost property before the end of term they’ll be able to give you things. Good luck.

Yes, ask on Facebook, see if there is a uniform grant, ask the school. Try charity shops.

We have two helpful schemes here, firstly many schools sell off the unclaimed lost property at the end of term for pennies (money goes to the pta), and secondly, we have a uniform bank scheme. Maybe organise one or both for next year?

More schools should have uniform sales.
After having our dc in state schools without this I noted that the one at the private school was crazy popular and raises loads for a charity.
Ask the school OP. Even though it may seem embarrassing you won't be the only parent in this situation. They should have some kind of strategies.