For many parents in Somerset, the cost of school uniforms can pose a significant financial challenge.

A recent parent survey across the UK found that the annual cost can reach more than £400 per child. Unlike many other councils in the UK, Somerset only offers grants for school clothing in exceptional circumstances, such as natural disasters or homelessness. This contrasts with various councils in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, where grants are readily available.

Since assistance in Somerset is available only in exceptional cases, parents may feel the pressure of this substantial expense.

However, there are several practical ways to reduce costs.

Ask your school for help. Many schools offer support to families who need financial assistance with uniforms, for example, by giving you vouchers towards the cost. It's also worth checking if your school has any second-hand uniform sales – this can be a good way to pick up lower-priced uniform at a fraction of the retail cost.

Cheap supermarket uniforms. Various supermarkets offer generic uniform from as little as £1.50 an item – these are plain-coloured clothes with no unique school badges. This is excellent value if your child's school allows generic uniforms.

Sales and discounts tend to come around early in the summer holidays, so it's better to shop sooner rather than later.

Check local Facebook groups and community programmes. There may be a 'school uniform bank' or pop-up shop in your area offering items at low or no cost, or a swap meet where you can exchange items with other parents and carers.

eBay, Vinted and Facebook Marketplace can be a treasure trove. Look out for bundles. For example, we've previously spotted a bundle of five M&S summer gingham dresses for £1.65.

While Somerset's policy may be concerning for many families, there are still practical measures to mitigate the cost of school uniforms.

Parents can navigate this challenge with greater ease by exploring these options and staying informed about potential assistance in extreme cases.

For those on low incomes who are struggling with these costs, it's worth investigating the full range of assistance available across the UK or contacting the local council directly to enquire about any specific support that might be accessible in their unique situation.

For more detailed information on cutting the cost of school uniforms, parents can consult various guides and stay updated on grants or assistance in Somerset, as policies and availability may change.

The information provided is current as of the 2023/24 academic year, and it's advisable to consult with local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

• If you are struggling financially, please click on the "Help for Households" banner in this article to see what help the government can offer you with the cost of living crisis.