Our aim is to prevent or relieve child poverty in families experiencing financial hardship in West Lothian, particularly in areas of high deprivation. We supply school uniforms and any other essential items deemed necessary to meet the cost of the school day. We provide a timely, confidential service that is accessible to any family in direct need, on a referral basis (this includes self referral). We work closely with schools, community groups and charities. In the last year (ending 30th April 2022) we have supported almost 1,400 children with a uniform pack. Referrers tell us:"The children would have been going to school with uniforms that were old and ill fitting. One boy burst into tears as his clothes matched and were brand new. Something that hadn't happened before.""One family were not eligible for the clothing grant due to the partner earning £50 over the threshold. Due to various arrears all wages did not reach the family purse. The children would have been kept off school until she had enough money to buy uniform."Our core service supports and improves the quality of life of the children we help and their families in many ways. For the young people, we help to improve their school experience by supplying them with new school uniform, restoring a sense of pride in their appearance. Our uniform packs give young people the opportunity to dress the same as their peers, which reduces the likelihood of them being bullied or suffering from low self-esteem and confidence. This in turn can improve their life chances as they are more likely to attend school and engage in their learning. Our service also improves the mental health of the young people and their parents/carers. For parents/carers, they report feeling less stressed knowing their children are provided for and it relieves some of the financial strain that many families are currently experiencing.