THE Citizens Advice Bureau is urging parents in Dorset to contact their child’s school to see what help is available with the cost of school uniforms.

A spokesman from the CAB said: “Although there is no requirement for local councils or schools to provide help with uniform, many do give grants to families on a low income and/or operate a second hand uniform scheme.

“If you are not sure what is available you should contact the school your child attends or will attend in September. “Do remember that schools are closed during the summer holidays so any enquiries or applications for grants must be made before they break up in July.”

The spokesman added: “Some schools in the area are joining in a Citizens Advice Bureau study to see how well school clothing grants are working. “We would be interested to hear about your experiences, good and bad, in finding out about these grants.”

Contact the CAB in Dorchester on 0845 2310400, Weymouth on 01305 782798 or Bridport on 01308 456594.