PARENTS in Clacks are being reminded of the financial help available for school clothing.

Ahead of the new term, Advice Direct Scotland is urging households to check their eligibility for support.

Local authorities across Scotland provide clothing grants of at least £120 per primary school aged child and £150 per secondary school aged child to families receiving qualifying benefits.

This differs by council area, with Clackmannanshire offering up to £145 for primary school kids and £185 for secondary school pupils.

Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Many parents worry about the costs of sending their child back to school after the holidays.

“We know that Scots families are finding things extremely difficult due to the cost-of-living crisis, especially as kitting out children is becoming increasingly expensive.

“The good news is that help is available, so we urge anyone who might benefit from a clothing grant to make sure they know how to apply when the relevant deadlines are.

“Eligibility and the amount you will receive varies depending on which local authority area you live in, and this is something we can help you understand.

“Anyone worried or confused can reach out to our team at advice.scot for free advice at any time.”

Parents are also asked to remember the deadlines for grant applications, which also varies per local authority.

Clacks has a December deadline, with parents eligible to apply for funding throughout the year.

Grants are paid directly into the recipient's bank account, but those without an account can discuss other payment options.

Families who are new to the area and have moved from another local authority are advised to check their eligibility under the new area’s guidelines.

More information can be found on advice.scot for general enquiries, or more detailed help can be found on the Clackmannanshire Council website.