There are jumpers, shirts, trousers, skirts, socks, shoes, P.E. kits – the list goes on.

And if you have more than one child, it can amount to a LOT of money.

But some low-income parents can receive a one-off school uniform payment that can help them out.

£314 payment available

If your child is starting school in September for the first time, you could be eligible for a 'School Age Payment'.

This is a cash boost worth over £314.45 to help pay for the *many* school costs parents need to fork out.

This comes as part of the Best Start Grant, a government grant given to families in Scotland claiming certain benefits.

The Scottish Government explained that the payment 'helps with the costs of preparing for school when your child is first old enough to start primary school.

'You can get the payment for multiple children, as long as each child is the right age when you apply.'

Alongside school uniform costs, it can also be spent on school trips and school stationery.

Who is eligible?

This is available for parents living in Scotland who have a child born between 1 March 2019 and 29 February 2020 who claim one of the following eligible benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit – this is Working Tax Credit with Child Tax Credit for Best Start Foods
• Housing Benefit
• Income Support
• Pension Credit
• income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

Young parents who are aged 19 or below can also apply, even if they aren't in receipt of eligible benefits.

How do I apply?

The School Age Payment is part of the Best Start Grant – a scheme that gives five payments to parents. The first four come between when they are first pregnant to when your child reaches school age.

Most parents who have received the previous payments will get the School Age Payment automatically – if this is the case, Social Security Scotland will notify you via text message.

If you have opted out of receiving automatic payments from the Scottish Government, or have chosen not to apply for Scottish Child Payment, you will need to apply for the School Age Payment.

Applications must be completed by 28 February 2025.

When will I receive the grant?

The £314.45 payment is given out in one lump sum during the year that your child is first old enough to start school.

Can I get a uniform grant in England, Wales or Northern Ireland?

There isn't a similar grant if you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.

However, you can apply for Sure Start Maternity Grant and Healthy Start Payments instead.