Here at Citizens Advice Manchester, we know that the return to school can be a costly time for parents. From uniform to stationery, transport to lunches, there are a number of expenses that parents have to consider at this time of year. 

In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the help available with various school costs. If you’re worried about the cost of your children returning to school and need advice, you can contact our Adviceline free on 0808 278 7800 or explore our website to find out ways to get advice online.

School meals

Your child is entitled to free school meals up until the end of key stage 1. You do not have to apply for free school meals as this is a universal entitlement. Once your child is in key stage 2 and above, you will need to pay for school meals unless you are on a low income or receive certain benefits.

If you receive Universal Credit, you may be eligible for free school meals if you started your claim before 1st April 2018, or you earn less than £7,400 a year (not including benefits). 

You may be eligible to receive free school meals if you receive other benefits, for example:

• Child Tax Credit (if your yearly income is £16,190 or less)

• Working Tax Credit run-on - you might get this for 4 weeks if you're no longer eligible for Working Tax Credit

• Income Support

• income-based Jobseeker's Allowance

• income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Guarantee Credit (part of Pension Credit)

If you've asked for asylum and you're getting asylum support while you wait for a decision, you can also apply for free school meals.

You can find out more and apply via the Manchester City Council website.

Transport to and from school

You may be entitled to help with transport costs to and from school if your child is between 5-16 years old and you either don’t live near school or your child is unable to walk to school because of their disabilities or special educational needs. 

You can apply for support via the Manchester City Council website. If there is a school nearby that your child could access, you may not be able to get any help with travel costs.

If your child is aged 16 or over and attends sixth form or an apprenticeship, they may still be eligible for help with transport costs. You can find out more here. 

Uniform and activities

The help you can get towards school uniforms and activities depends on where you live. You can contact your local council to find out whether they offer any financial support. 

You may also be able to get some financial help from your child’s school or PTA (parent-teacher association) towards the cost of uniforms and activities. You can ask for the contact details at your school office.

If you need further help or advice on understanding your rights, you can contact our Adviceline free on 0808 278 7800 or explore our website to find out ways to get advice online.