More families to receive help with school uniform cost under expanded voucher scheme

“Prices keep going up, so this voucher really helps. It’s one less thing to stress about, and my child can start school with everything they need,” said a parent of a child starting primary school. 

The initiative, currently in its fourth year, previously offered vouchers to families on Free School Meals whose children are starting Reception or Year 7. Now, the offer will also include all Access for All families whose children are joining Reception or Year 7 in September 2025. 

The expansion is part of the council’s wider commitment to fairness through its Access for All programme, Britain’s best concession scheme. An Access for All membership gives eligible residents 50% to 100% discounts on essential services, aiming to ensure every resident benefits from the opportunities that make Wandsworth such a great place to live. 

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, said: "This expansion of our School Uniform Support Scheme reflects our commitment to supporting Wandsworth families. 

“Uniforms are a necessary cost, and this support helps ensure more children can start school feeling confident and ready to learn.” 

The council first launched the School Uniform Support Scheme in 2022, offering vouchers for over 1,000 Wandsworth pupils in Reception and Year 7 eligible for free school meals. 

It has already made a difference to many families, and this expansion is expected to help even more this year, including those on Universal Credit who don’t qualify for free school meals. 

For students entering Reception the voucher is worth £45, and in Year 7 it is worth £170, higher than those provided by any other council in London. 

How would families get their vouchers?

Families that qualify for free school meals will receive their voucher automatically. 

Those eligible under the Access for All scheme must apply to become an Access for All member for free, opt in to receive marketing emails and then information about how to access the voucher will be shared with them directly. Only one parent needs to qualify for Access for All eligibility for us to provide the voucher. 

Vouchers are redeemable for cash at any Post Office using the Evouchers app or browser. 

Those who haven’t received a voucher but think they are eligible can contact the council directly at voucherandholidaysupport@wandsworth.co.uk.