// BBC BUSINESS NEWS — FINANZA
School uniform costs hit families, say charities
The government has announced new rules on the number of uniform items with school logos that students are required to wear
Charities in Sussex have warned new school uniform costs could add financial pressure on struggling families.
This is despite new rules limiting the number of branded items state schools can require, which the government says will save parents money.
Children's charity Pelican Parcels, in Brighton and Hove, said it was set to double its school uniform support by the end of 2026 in response to "rising local demand".
"Every child deserves to start the school year feeling confident, with school uniform and shoes that fit properly," said head of operations Elaine Bailey. "For many families, the cost of uniform can be overwhelming."
Pelican Parcels said it gave more than 3,400 items to school children in 2025
The charity, which provides school uniforms, PE kits and supplies, said it gave more than 3,400 items to 520 children across 12 schools last year.
It is seeking donations of good-quality, unbranded uniform items, including polo shirts, pinafores and PE shorts.
Elsewhere, Horsham Matters, a charity in West Sussex, estimates that every school year, parents spend £336 on kitting out children for primary school, rising to £439 for secondary school.
Its chief executive Kelvin Glen said: "Nobody wants to send their child into a new classroom without everything they need to learn effectively.