FAMILIES across Argyll and Bute are being encouraged to check whether they qualify for financial support to help cover the cost of school uniforms and meals ahead of the new school term.
Argyll and Bute Council is reminding parents and carers that eligible households can receive a school clothing grant of £127.20 for each primary school pupil and £159 for each secondary school pupil.
The local authority says the support can help ease the financial pressure many families face during the summer holidays as they prepare children to return to school in August.
Eligibility is based on household income and receipt of certain benefits, including Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit and some Universal Credit claims.
Parents and carers who have not previously qualified are also being encouraged to check their eligibility, as changes in personal circumstances could mean they are now entitled to support.
All children in Primary 1 to Primary 5 are automatically entitled to free school meals during term time. However, families must still submit an income-based application if they wish to be considered for a school clothing grant, school holiday meal payments or other financial assistance.
Children in Primary 6 and Primary 7 may also qualify for free school meals if their parent or carer receives the Scottish Child Payment on their behalf.
Applications for free school meals can be submitted at any point during the school year, although support is normally awarded from the date the application is received.
The council is encouraging families to apply as early as possible to ensure support is in place for the start of the new school year.
Applications for school clothing grants for the 2026/27 academic year must be submitted by March 31, 2027.
Further information, including eligibility criteria and application forms, is available on the Argyll and Bute Council website.
