Council reminds parents of grant funding scheme

Denbighshire County Council is informing parents and guardians that they can apply for the School Essentials Grant.

The grant scheme, known as the School Essentials Grant (previously Pupil Development Grant), is open for applications, and people may qualify if they receive at least one benefit, such as: 

• Income support

• Income based job seekers allowance

• Income related employment and support allowance

• Child tax credit (but not working tax credit) with an annual income below £16,190

• Pension credit (guaranteed credit)

• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

• Universal Credit and your yearly net earnings must be no more than £7,400.

Parents or guardians who receive a qualifying benefit can receive a grant of £125 if their children are in Reception or Years 1 to 11. 

If the child is in Year 7, parents/guardians may be entitled to a grant of £200 if they receive one of the benefits. 

The grant can cover: 

•  School uniform.

•  School sports kit.

•  Kit for sports outside of school.

•  Uniform for wider activities such as Scouts and Guides.

•  Equipment for activities to support the curriculum, such as design and technology.

•  Equipment for out of school hours trips, including outdoor learning.

•  Duke of Edinburgh activities.

•  Computers, laptops and tablets. 

People cannot receive a School Essentials Grant if they are in receipt of Working Tax Credit.

If your child goes to a school in Denbighshire, you can apply online for a grant by visiting www.denbighshire.gov.uk/school-essentials-grant

People that are eligible for Free School Meals, as well as the School Essentials Grant, may use the same online application form to apply for both. 

Councillor Gill German, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education, Children and Families, said: “We know that families are feeling the pressure due to the cost-of-living issues and will be searching for further financial support to assist them.

"This grant funding can be a real lifeline to assist in paying for these goods."