PARENTS have been urged to apply for a free school clothing grant to help buy uniforms.

Cumbria County Council have urged parents of children beginning or returning to school in September to apply for clothing vouchers and free school meals.

Cllr Sue Sanderson, cabinet member for schools and learning, said: "It is so important that eligible parents continue to apply for free school meals even though all infants now automatically get one.

"If they don’t apply, not only are they missing out on help with the cost of school uniforms, but their child's school could also miss out on thousands of pounds.

"We know many families really benefit from subsidised school clothing and that is why the council continues to fund school clothing grants despite the cuts to our budget.

"We have a commitment to helping children and families who really need it."

The scheme could also see schools gain a Pupil Premium payment of up to £1,320 for extra support.

Parents can apply online at www.cumbria.gov.uk/uniforms.