Cost of Living Support

At Kirby Hill C of E Primary School, we know that the rising cost of living is affecting many families in different ways. Managing everyday expenses while ensuring your child has everything they need can be very challenging. You are not alone; we are here to support you with practical help, trusted information, and a confidential listening ear.

Our school is committed to supporting all families, and we will do everything we can to help you and your children through difficult times.

Confidential Support at School

Please remember that support is always available, and you can always talk to us in confidence. You can speak privately to Miss Lisa Welburn or any member of our school team. We are here to help, listen, and signpost you to support.

School Uniform Support

We want every child to feel confident and included. If the cost of school uniform is difficult for your family at the moment, we offer support through:

• Pre-loved uniform collection
  School uniform items available for families to take free of charge or “pay what you feel” into our donation box

• All items are washed and ready to wear, sorted by age group

Please contact the school office for details about times and availability. We are happy to do this on your behalf and can request items anonymously. 

Please note all items of our uniform are available unbranded. You do not need to wear the school logo on any items and these can be purchased at all major supermarkets.

Food Support

Free School Meals (FSM)

Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 already receive a universal free school meal. Families who are eligible through financial support may also qualify for FSM for children in other year groups.

For eligibility information and help applying, please contact the school office. 
You can check your eligibility here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals 

Local Food Support

If you need further support with food at home, organisations such as local food banks and community fridges can help. You can find services near you and get details of opening times and how to access support on local listings.

👉 Find local food support services

More locally: There is a food bank available at school which is regularly filled. Families are always welcome to take items or this can be done discreetly through the office. 

https://bcccharity.co.uk/our-services/community-larder/ 

Help with Bills, Benefits & Money Advice

There is a wide range of support available to help families with:

• Managing energy bills and keeping warm

• Checking benefit entitlements and claiming support

• Debt and money advice

• Emergency financial help through local funds

• Housing support

👉 North Yorkshire Cost of Living Support – find practical help, benefits guidance, food support, energy advice and more:
https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/community-and-volunteering/cost-living-support-0

Family Information Services

York Family Information Service

Support for families across York, including childcare advice, activities, and services:
📞 01904 554444 (Mon–Fri, 10 am–4 pm)
📱 Text: 07786 202224
📧 fis@york.gov.uk
🌐 https://yor-ok.org.uk/families/FIS/family-information-service.html

North Yorkshire Families Information Service

Free information for parents and carers about childcare, early education and family support:
🌐 https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/children-and-families/early-education-and-childcare/families-information-service

Benefits, Tax & Cost of Living Payments

• Check you’re on the right tax code (you might be due a refund)

• Use benefits calculators like Turn2us and Policy in Practice to see what you could be entitled to

• If you’re already claiming benefits, you may be able to get a short-term benefit advance from the DWP

• Government Cost of Living payments are automatic if you’re eligible - the government does not ask for bank details by text or email (beware of scams)

Energy Bills Support

Support and advice is available to help you manage your energy costs, including energy efficiency guidance and local schemes. Visit the North Yorkshire cost of living support page above for more details.

Other Organisations That Can Help

• Citizens Advice – financial advice, benefits support, help with essential costs

• StepChange – free debt advice

• Shelter – housing help

• Turn2us – grants and financial help

• Salvation Army – emergency support

• Gingerbread – support for single parents

• Freecycle – free household items

Support with Beds and a Safe Place to Sleep

We understand that sometimes, whether due to short-term difficulties or long-term circumstances, families may be facing challenges that mean a child does not have a suitable bed or safe place to sleep.

A good night’s sleep is vital for children’s health, wellbeing and learning, and no child should have to go without this.

There are organisations that can help provide beds and essential bedding for children and young people who need them.
https://zarach.org 

https://hadca.org.uk/CostOfLiving