Not every child starts school in August with a new uniform, and this can profoundly impact their self-esteem. Our mission is to ensure that every child experiences the same sense of belonging as their classmates and can look forward to returning to school.
Over the past eight years our charity has supported over 8,000 families facing financial hardship, providing new uniforms, jackets, shoes, and school bags. We collaborate with various community professionals, such as Schools, Charities, Social Services, Women’s Aid, and The Advice Shop who have referred over 2,000 young people to us in the past year alone and demand is rising every year.
A new uniform can significantly reduce the risk of bullying, bolster self-confident, foster a sense of inclusion, and improve school attendance. That’s why we’re launching an appeal for donations of new and gently used uniforms, ensuring every child in West Lothian feels valued and accepted at school.
How you can help:
(1) Sponsor-A-Child and Buy a Uniform Pack - register and we’ll send you the details of items required for a child who has been referred to us (typically 3-6 items). After purchasing the items drop them off and we’ll arrange for their delivery to the family. Click this link to register https://bit.ly/49fueWt
(2) Fill-A-Bag with Vital School Supplies - such as socks, tights, pencil case, stationery, and a water bottle. After you’ve packed your bag (you could use a school bag or draw string gym bag), simply drop it off at one of our numerous red drop-off points across West Lothian, conveniently situated in various supermarkets and community establishments. https://schoolbank-westlothian.org/drop-off-points/
(3) Make-A-Donation - donate and we will buy items on your behalf. For example, £18 could buy a 5-pack of white shirts for a teenager, £45 would buy a pair of school shoes and jacket. The cost of a full uniform pack is £140, although all donations are gratefully received. Click this link to donate: https://rb.gy/mfj4tc
(4) Recycle Uniforms – we enthusiastically welcome ‘good quality’ pre-used uniforms that still have plenty of life left in them, including jackets (except items with school badges, blazers, or kilts). Items can be dropped into one of our red drop-off points across West Lothian. https://schoolbank-westlothian.org/drop-off-points/
For further details, reach out to us via email at admin@schoolbank-westlothian.org or visit our website at https://schoolbank-westlothian.org
