School uniforms are urgently needed in Oldham as desperate families struggle to keep up with the cost of living.

That is the message from a charity in the town, which has launched a vital appeal for summer clothes.

They will be used to restock the uniform bank at The Salvation Army, at The Brew in Fitton Hill.

It typically runs during the summer break, but due to a soar in demand, is opening its doors early. The uniform bank accepts any pre-loved summer clothes in a good condition.

Community engagement co-ordination Kim Rogers explained: "The ongoing cost of living crisis means that many families struggle all year round with many living day to day, wage packet to wage packet, meaning that stocking up on items just isn’t possible and instead money goes on the essentials and basic needs, buying only what is required at the time.

“We have found that this is also the case for school uniforms, which are essential, but many families are budgeting to keep roofs over their children’s heads and food in their tummies so school uniforms sadly don’t come into the budget.”

Items required include yellow, light blue and white polo shirts, as well as grey shorts and summer dresses in any sizes.

The uniform hub is a sustainable alternative to throwing away clothing, while also encouraging the recycling of old uniforms. School trousers, shirts and skirts are also welcome as well as branded uniform for the three main schools in the area: St Martin’s, Holy Rosary and Medlock Valley schools.

Ms Rogers continued: "Our uniform hub provides good quality pre-loved school uniforms to people in need and with the warmer weather approaching, we are in urgent need of supplies to stock our shelves and take the financial pressures off many people living within our community."

The hub operates on a referral basis, which can be obtained from social services, health visitors and schools. Self-referral is also permitted by calling 0161 628 6808.

Uniform items can be dropped off to The Salvation Army in Fitton Hill. The key colours for local schools include - red, royal blue and green jumpers; grey school pants and/or skirts; yellow, light blue and white polo shirts.

The charity also accepts financial donations via its JustGiving page.

Ms Rogers added: “We wouldn’t be able to run the Uniform Hub or support our local community without the generous and kind donations.

"This is a key example of others helping others which is what the Christian message inspires us to do.”

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