Fears new uniform guidelines ‘don’t go far enough’

Fears new uniform guidelines ‘don’t go far enough’

But there are already fears being expressed by members of Stormont’s Education Committee that the new statutory regulations will not go far enough to assist families struggling to cover the cost.

Parent groups and charities have argued that the cost of school uniforms is forcing one in three families into debt to cover the expense.

The guidelines follow the provisions of the School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Bill, which passed Final Stage in the Assembly on October 13. They will take effect when the Bill gains Royal Assent.

Education Minister Paul Givan said the guidelines have been issued “to assist them in making sure their uniform policies meet the necessary requirements for the 2026/27 school year”.

“My Department has previously written to schools to help them

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