Schools - clothing grants and vouchers

The Education (Scotland) Act 1980 gives the education authority a duty to make provision for the clothing of pupils who would, otherwise, be unable to take full advantage of the education provided at schools under its management. 

West Lothian children, five years of age and over, who are awaiting a school place and pupils placed at special education provision outwith the authority are also West Lothian Council's responsibility.

Families in receipt of Income Support, Income-based Jobseekers' Allowance or Working Tax Credit (WTC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) (with an annual income of £15050 or less) who submit a completed application form automatically receive a clothing grant for each pupil of school age.   The current grants are £47 for each primary school aged pupil and £55 for pupils of secondary school age.

Families not in receipt of these specific benefits but in financial hardship may also be assisted depending upon their situation. On receipt of an application in such cases, a report is called for from the Education Welfare Service regarding the families' circumstances.

 

More information on School Clothing Grants can be found in the Policy - see 'Online Tools' on the right.   An application form is also available.

 

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions

Click a question to see the answer.

Can I apply for a school clothing and footwear grant if I am in receipt of Child Tax Credit?

If you receive Child Tax Credit only and your annual income is less than £15,050 as assessed by the Inland Revenue, then yes, you will be eligible for a school clothing and footwear grant. You need to send a copy of your tax credit award letter with your application.

Can I apply for a school clothing and footwear grant if I am in receipt of Working Families Tax Credit?

For applicants in receipt of Working Tax Credit to qualify for a clothing grant, your gross annual income must be less than £15,050, as calculated by the Inland Revenue, and as shown on your award letter. You need to send a copy of your tax credit award letter with your application.

How much will I receive if I am eligible for a clothing grant?

The school clothing grant is £55 for each child of secondary school age and £47 for each child of primary school age at the start of the school session in August.

How often can I apply for a school clothing grant?

You can apply or a school clothing and footwear grant once in any financial year, i.e. once between 1 April and 31 March.

What benefits can I get for my child to assist them attend school?

You may be eligible for an education maintenance allowance, free school meals, free school transport or a school clothing allowance and.

What documents do I need to show to prove I qualify for a school footwear and clothing grant?

When applying for a footwear and clothing grant you will need to show proof of benefit received as stated in the application form.

Who is eligible for a school clothing grant ?

If you receive Income Support or Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, and your child is under the age of sixteen and attends a primary or secondary school, you may be eligible for a school clothing and footwear grant.

Online Tools

Contact details