Parents 'in tears' receiving free school uniforms

A charity that provides school uniforms has said parents are in tears when discovering the clothes given to them by the service are completely free.

Level Trust Uniform Exchange in Luton said it provided 7,203 children with uniforms last year but this year it expected that figure to rise to more than 10,000.

Kim Ansell has worked at the charity for nearly six years and had used the service herself before becoming a volunteer.

"We've had parents in tears when they found out it's completely free - they hug you," she said.

She now works for the Uniform Exchange, based at The Point shopping centre, as she wants to help other parents in a similar position.

The 40-year-old explained: "I know what they've been through; I know how desperately they need uniform, but it's so expensive.

"We wash it; it's clean; if I wouldn't put my children in it, we won't give it to your children."

Paulina Gorna-Sow has used the service because she finds it difficult to afford uniforms while caring for two disabled children.

She said: "For my eldest child I have to change his uniform every three months; it's really tough."

Without the charity she said it would be "tough times" and praised the "very helpful" staff.

She added: "I am a mum, so I understand how difficult every day living is; if we all help each other it would be easier for everyone.

"When my son finished school I gave his uniform to the charity to help somebody else; now I'm coming for some more help."

Kerri Porthouse, deputy chief executive of Level Trust, said other were keen to recycle uniforms and avoid them going to landfill.

She said: "Since the cost of living crisis has hit we have seen more people having to use the service, last year alone we saw an increase of 150%."

She wanted to reassure parents there was nothing to be apprehensive about when using the service.

"Some people are really worried about using the service - we see people walking backwards and forwards in front of the shop debating [whether] to come in.

"But if you come into the shop we will help you and our wonderful staff will support you as best they can."

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