Speaking during a visit to the Scoil na Fuiseoige Family Centre in Twinbrook, the Minister said: “This is a time of economic hardship for us all but particularly so for those in our community with young families who struggle to meet the cost of basic everyday needs such as the cost of school uniforms.
“In recognition of this, I announced in March that the current Clothing Allowance Scheme would be extended to cover primary school children as well as those in post-primary schools. This is the first time that such a measure has been taken here.
“Scoil na Fuiseoige Family Centre provides invaluable support for many families from this area. It is my hope that the new primary school allowance will provide some support to families right across the north of Ireland.
“The allowance will be £35 and I would encourage all eligible families to apply for it. The eligibility criteria will be the same as those currently used for the post-primary school uniform allowance.
“The Education and Library Boards (ELBs) are responsible for the administration of the scheme and application forms can be obtained from the Boards and schools.”
Notes to Editors:
1. On 6 March 2009, as part of the announcement on budget allocations to schools and Education and Library Boards for the incoming financial year, the Minister announced that she was extending the current school uniform grant scheme to cover primary school children as well as post-primary school children. The Minister also wrote to all schools on 27 April informing them of the change.
2. The Education and Library Boards are responsible for the administration of the Clothing Allowance Scheme and they have issued application forms to schools in their areas. Advertising posters have also been drawn up to publicise the scheme. Forms can be obtained from the Boards at the following contact numbers:
- Belfast Education and Library Board – 028 9056 4239 or 9056 4241
- North-Eastern Education and Library Board – 028 2566 2571 or 2 or 3
- South-Eastern Education and Library Board – 028 9056 6319
- Southern Education and Library Board – 028 3751 2523
- Western Education and Library Board – 028 8241 1496
3. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
