School Uniform Saving Stamps Scheme
Every parent loves the obligatory photo taken at the front door on the 1st day back to school, as the children head out looking shiny and new in their fresh, slightly oversized new uniform. But many parents are familiar with a feeling of dread that can overshadow the end of the summer holidays as they know they need to go and buy that shiny new uniform. For many families, the cost of school uniforms is a challenge and is something that needs to be planned into the family budget.
A 2017 report by the NI Commissioner for Children and Young People on The Cost of Education in Northern Ireland highlights that parents spend an average amount of £109.39 per child on school uniforms or £176.68 per household. This figure increases by another £53.69 per child on PE clothing, footwear and equipment or an average of £84.29 per household.
Ricky Wright, CEO Vineyard Compassion says, “Vineyard Compassion recognise that providing all the essential items for our children and young people can put families under financial pressure at the end of the summer. The School Uniform Savings Stamps Scheme is one way that can help to spread the cost and alleviate stress for parents and carers.”
Vineyard Compassion are delighted to be working in partnership with local businesses, S&T Moores and Heart & Home Coleraine to roll out the scheme and it is open to anyone within the Causeway Coast & Glens.
The scheme works in a very simple way: Parents/Carers purchase the savings stamp from Vineyard Compassion any time throughout the year. Parents/Carers are given a savings card to keep the stamps. The card is presented at the time of purchase at S&T Moores or Heart and Home and the saving stamps are used as payment for the items. The stamps cost £5 each and can be purchased from Vineyard Compassion reception at The Hope Centre, 10 Hillmans Way Coleraine BT522ED, Monday – Friday 9am-5pm.
If you think this scheme could help you or someone you know to manage the family budget to prepare for school uniform costs this summer, then contact Steve at Vineyard Compassion for more details on 028 7022 0005 or email info@vineyardcompassion.co.uk