Antrim and Newtownabbey school uniform exchanges survey

The survey will also provide an opportunity for others to register their interest in starting new school uniform re-use schemes.

Glengormley Alliance representative Alderman Julian McGrath who proposed the council initiative stated previously that a “huge burden on families across Antrim and Newtownabbey will be lifted with easier access to pre-worn school uniforms”.

The uniform exchange will mean that parents will have greater access to pre-worn, good condition, school uniforms across the borough, with items donated and claimed free of charge.

Ald McGrath explained that the idea is “not to replace existing schemes but to help them by promoting what they are doing”.

Council officers will work to promote and highlight existing schemes, support those setting up new schemes and help “fill gaps”.

Five community groups across Newtownabbey and Antrim have already volunteered their support.

It is anticipated that uniform drop-off and exchange programmes will take place in early August

Ald McGrath said previously: “Every year, parents across Northern Ireland are faced with the prospect of buying school uniforms, often for multiple children and at substantial cost.

“An increasing number of parents are unable to meet the basic cost of living and one of the knock-on effects for families is essentials such as school uniforms often become unaffordable.

“Research has shown nearly one in six families have said school uniforms are to blame for their having to cut back on food and other items. I hope this scheme will go even a small way to helping ease that burden for many families.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.

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