More than 145,000 children across Scotland will benefit from increased cash grants to help cover the cost of school uniform, national statistics show.

Figures from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (Spice) show that grants totalling £11.8 million will help hard-up families kit their children out for the new school term.

Increased payments mean that eligible families will receive £120 for each child at primary school and £150 per student at secondary school.

A total of 145,080 pupils across Scotland are expected to benefit, according to Spice.

Background: Minimum school clothing grant increased to £120

Background: Child poverty was rising before Covid

News: Six ways Covid has hit poorer pupils the hardest

Research: Call to end monopolies on school uniform supply

Big read: How schools are helping poorer families with money

In June, Stephen McCabe, children and young people spokesperson for local authorities’ body Cosla, said: “Councils and schools are working to tackle the costs of the school day, ensuring that all children are able to fully participate in their education.

School uniform grant increased

“Working with the Scottish government, we are pleased that the national minimum school clothing grant has been increased and that families can get extra support as we continue on the road to recovery from the pandemic.”

In November 2020, University of Aberdeen research found that almost a fifth of secondaries specified an exclusive supplier for school uniform, despite this pushing up costs and putting pressure on low-income families.

The lead researcher suggested getting rid of bespoke items, such as school-specific blazers and ties, and replacing them with “everyday items”, such as jumpers or trousers of a certain colour.

Eligible families can apply for the school clothing grant through their local council, with information available here.