Free school uniforms are being offered year-round at a charity shop in Salford as the cost of living continues to rise.
Peace of Mind, a mental health charity based in Irlams O’th Height, is offering a variety of free school uniform items to help struggling families.
A box containing the uniform has been placed outside the shop, and parents are able to take items free of cost.
Susan, 41, store manager of the Peace of Mind charity shop, said: “We keep the box there all the time, even when the shop is shut so anybody can have a look whenever.”
Susan explained how having the box outside eases any embarrassment people may feel at having to take the free uniform, as they do not have to ask for it.
However, she does believe the stigma around receiving financial help has been lessened in recent years, amid the cost of living crisis and with uniform prices vastly increasing.
Susan said: “I think it’s less nowadays, because of the climate we’re living in, everything is really expensive.
“You might think you see a deal in the supermarket of £4 for a pack of three shirts, but then it’s everything else you’re having to buy. It’s crazy prices when you add it all up.”
Whilst some charities offer free school uniform over the summer, Susan believes offering them year round is crucial.
“I just thought, why should it just be a summer thing?” she said.
“Growth spurts are happening all the time, all year round, so I thought make it a permanent thing and you’ve got local people being able to clothe their kids at a decent price.”
The free school uniform is offered dependent on the donations the charity receives, so all donations are welcome and can be contributed at their store on Bolton Road.
Susan said: “It’s always good to help out people because it’s a nice thing to do,”
“I’m always here to help.”
You can find out more about Peace of Mind on their Facebook.
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