Cut the costs of back-to-school
Just as summer comes to an end, the cost of uniforms, shoes, stationery and packed lunches can quickly start to add up. If you're already trying to juggle household bills and everyday expenses, those back-to-school costs can feel like a lot all at once.
The good news is that there are simple ways to cut costs and make your budget go a little further.
Start with a back-to-school budget
Before you head to the shops, take a few minutes to make a list of what your child actually needs.
It's easy to overspend when you're picking up lots of small items, so setting a budget and prioritising essentials can help keep costs under control. Spreading purchases over a few weeks can also make things feel much more manageable.
MoneyHelper's free budget planner can help you get organised before term starts.
Buy fewer branded uniform items
There's good news for parents and carers this year.
From September 2026, schools in England are limited in the number of branded uniform items they can require. That means more of your child's uniform can be bought from supermarkets and high street retailers, often at a fraction of the cost and there'll be less need for splashing out on expensive branded uniform items.
Check what support is available
Many families miss out on support simply because they don't know it's there.
Depending on where you live and your circumstances, you could be eligible for:
•  School uniform grants
•   Free school meals
•   Help with school transport
•   Local council support schemes
MoneySavingExpert has a useful guide to available support, but it's also worth checking your local council's website.
You may also be entitled to benefits or financial support you haven't claimed. Our Better Off Calculator can help you check in just a few minutes.
Make the most of second-hand uniforms
Children grow quickly, which means many school uniforms have plenty of life left in them.
Before buying new, check whether your school runs a second-hand uniform sale or swap shop.
The School Uniform Bank Directory can help you find local uniform banks offering free or low-cost uniforms. Local Facebook groups, community pages and websites such as Vinted can also be great places to find a bargain.
Plan lunches ahead
Packed lunches can quickly become expensive if you're making lots of extra trips to the supermarket.
A simple weekly plan can help reduce food waste, make the most of leftovers and keep spending on track.
The NHS website also has plenty of free lunchbox ideas and budget-friendly recipes to help you get started.
Need to spread the cost?
Sometimes, even with the best planning, all the costs seem to arrive at once. If you need a little extra support, our Family Loan can help you spread the cost of school uniforms, shoes, stationery and other back-to-school essentials.
With affordable repayments made directly through Child Benefit, it's designed to offer a straightforward and manageable way to cover the costs that matter most.
A little planning goes a long way
Back-to-school season doesn't have to bring financial stress.
By planning ahead, checking what support is available and looking for ways to reduce costs, you can make September feel a little more manageable.
And if you need a little extra help along the way, remember you're not alone. Charities like Family Action offer free support and guidance for families facing financial or emotional challenges.
We're also here with practical tools, savings options and fair, affordable borrowing designed around real life