Demand for school uniforms and supplies is on the rise in Teesside
Many families aren't able to afford the items
We are hearing how demand for school uniform and supplies is on the rise in Teesside.
It comes as many primaries and secondaries ask for their specific logos which can be costly for families who cannot afford it, particularly if they have more than one child.
Freebies Teesside School Uniform group says they are encouraging parents to donate, swap and recycle unwanted items - rather than discarding them.
Helen Johnston is the founder and said: "Over the last eight years we've been actively supporting Teesside families who are finding it a struggle to afford the expensive school uniforms and equipment for their children. There's been an increase in demand since the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis as more families are finding things hard financially.
"Many of the primary and secondary schools now specify that pupils should wear uniform items bearing their school logo, which can be extremely costly for parents, especially if families have more than one child in school, so items such as blazers, sweatshirts, PE kits and even ties are always in demand.
"The group remains active throughout the year. We have just under 6,000 members at the moment. Members are more than welcome to post items for collection through their own homes or alternatively donations can be taken to our admin drop-off points which are located in Middlesbrough, Stockton, Billingham, Eston and Redcar areas.
"Freebies Teesside School Uniform group remains active all year around with parents able to recycle their children's unwanted uniform items, GCSE revision books, book bags and stationary. It's especially busy from June through to September when the primary and secondary schools break up for the summer holidays."