Wolverhampton City Council has celebrated how its School Uniform Scheme has helped 596 children in the last year alone, with more than 900 children supported since the scheme began in 2024.

The scheme operates through Wolverhampton City Credit Union. Children who open an account receive pound-for-pound savings matched up to a maximum of £75 to purchase school uniform.

How the scheme works

The programme is funded by the Government's Crisis and Resilience Fund. It aims to help children develop good financial habits from a young age while easing the pressure on household budgets at a time when uniform costs can be a significant worry for parents.

Tameka Spencer, Chief Executive of Wolverhampton City Credit Union, said the partnership demonstrates the difference organisations can make when working together to support local people.

"Our ethos has always been people helping people and the School Uniform Scheme has allowed us to put that principle into action by supporting local families with a cost that can place real pressure on household finances," Spencer said.

"It is about dignity, inclusion and making sure people know that support is available within their community."

Council's financial wellbeing strategy

Councillor Stephen Simkins, Leader of the council, said the council's Cabinet had recently agreed a refreshed Financial Wellbeing Strategy for the city. He said projects like the School Uniform Scheme were key to helping residents from a young age.

"We're determined to support our residents when they need us most and help them develop skills and habits to manage finances not only now in these difficult times, but also importantly throughout their lives," Simkins said.

He encouraged people of all ages to explore what the credit union offers and to consider opening an account.

Getting involved

Residents can find out more about Wolverhampton City Credit Union's services and open a Child Savers Account online at WCCU Wolverhampton City Credit Union.

The council also provides information about other cost of living support available to residents through its Cost of Living Support pages.