A range of help and support is available for families who receive certain benefits with the cost of the school day. These include clothing grants, free school meals and milk, which can all be applied for ahead of the new school term starting on Tuesday 15 August.

School uniform grants in West Lothian are £150 for each primary school-aged pupil and £180 for pupils of secondary school age per year, and the same form can be used to apply for free school meals and milk. Those eligible for free school meals also receive payments of £3 for each day during the school holidays to cover food costs.

Students staying over the school leaving age, or those attending college, may also be eligible for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) for £30 per week.

Executive councillor for education, Andrew McGuire, said: “We appreciate that there are costs associated with attending school, which is why we have put a range of support in place.

“I would encourage anyone who has struggled with school costs, or think they might struggle when the new term starts in August, to see what help is available. West Lothian has one of the highest school uniform grants in Scotland, and we would like to make sure that everyone who is eligible applies.

“For those who don’t meet the criteria, or need additional help, support with uniforms is available from most schools and they can also make a referral to the West Lothian School Bank charity.”

Any West Lothian family looking for free, impartial financial advice can contact the Advice Shop or by calling 01506 283 000.