Perennial provides help with 'back to school' costs

 

With the latest government figures showing that 30% of all children in the UK are living in relative poverty, the need to support our most vulnerable families has never been greater.

BIGGA is a platinum partner of Perennial, the UK horticulture charity, and members of the association are entitled to access all the support and resources it provides.

Perennial is ready to support families to meet the rising costs of getting children back to work by providing help towards the cost of school uniform and PE kit. This is essential help at a time when many families are struggling to meet the cost of food and other essentials.

The professional and friendly team at Perennial can help families access the government support that can make a long-term difference to their lives, along with providing a safety net of financial help, where at least one parent or carer works or has recently worked in horticulture – and this includes golf greenkeepers.

Many hard-working families working in horticulture are finding themselves in poverty. According to the Child Poverty Action Group, almost three quarters of children in poverty come from families where at least one adult is working.

Perennial's support scheme was launched in 2019 and was very well received, with one parent saying: "I am relieved and humbled that you have helped us with the children's uniform and shoes. Thank you so much for your support and advice too. It feels financially overwhelming at the moment and we are grateful for this help."

According to a report by The Children's Society, the average cost of secondary school uniform, per year per child, is £337. Parents of primary school age children spend an average of £315 per year per child. Many people simply can't afford new uniform and for those forced to purchase uniform from specific suppliers, the costs can result in debt or the family going without other essentials.

If you, or someone you know, work in horticulture and need additional help to meet rising 'back to school' costs, Perennial can help families access goverenment support and with the cost of school uniform and PE kit. To find out more and apply for help please visit perennial.org.uk/backtoschool