Back to school help for families in need

Families across Renfrewshire are being encouraged to use all the tools available to help during the back-to-school period.

- TAYLOR MURRAY

With kids preparing for another year of learning and growing, MSP Tom Arthur has reminded parents to make the most of the support on offer during this costly month.

Last year, more than 5,400 School Age Payments totalling almost £1.5 million were paid out to families across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.

The Best Start Grant - School Age Payment is a one-off payment of £314.45 to eligible families when their child starts primary school. It helps with essentials such as school uniforms, shoes and bags.

This is in addition to the Best Start Foods payment card which supports families with the cost of healthy food throughout the year.