Getting help with back to school costs

A new school year can put pressure on lots of people’s budgets. From uniform to stationery, transport to lunches, there are a number of expenses that parents have to consider at this time of year. But, there is help available. 

School Lunches

The help you can get to cover school lunches will vary depending on how old your children are and if you claim benefits. Children in Reception, Year 1 and 2 automatically get free school meals. 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)

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

Travel Costs

If your child can't walk to school because of special educational needs or disabilities they should get free school transport. Manchester City Council offers travel assistance through the Home to School Transport team, who will assess your situation and provide specific support such as multiple pick up transport, financial help with mileage costs, or a personal travel budget. You can apply for travel support on the Manchester City Council website.

Uniform and Activity Costs

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. There may also be  local charitable schemes that can help. A good place to find out about these is the school itself or Parent Teacher Association (PTA) both will usually know if these kinds of schemes exist. You can also check if there's a charity that can help you with school costs on the Educational Trusts' Forum website.


A lot of people are feeling the squeeze at the moment, but it’s important to remember that help is available with starting school costs and you’re not alone. For more support, contact our Adviceline service on 0808 278 7800, or visit www.citizensadvicemanchester.org.uk/get-help-button to find out more ways to contact us.

Danny Brown