A community store that runs a free second-hand school uniform program says it is a "flat" service family that can't afford to buy branded clothing.

The Second Opportunity CIC, located in Hendon, Sunderland, collects donations of former pre-war items that are available to those in need.

It was with the Ministry of Education (DFE) trying to change the law to limit the number of mandatory brand programs required by schools to three and to provide middle school students with branded ties to cut costs for families.

Wendy English, director of Second Chance, said that on average 20 families use the service every day, and “people can’t afford clothing except bills and food.”

The government believes that parents in England will save about £50 per child through their school uniform measures, hoping to launch in September 2026.

But school uniform manufacturers claim that these plans may end up making them pay more.

There are still several parliamentary stages to go through before the children’s welfare and school bills become law.

The second opportunity opened in April 2023 and replenishes a unified donation every day, allowing customers to access items without referral services.

"We can be very difficult to restock," said the English lady.

“We used up the donation, but I think it shows how many people need us.”

She believes the new rules are what she calls a "good start" to an increasingly serious problem.

“We keep a flattened family with families who can’t afford brand uniforms, so they come here,” she said.

The second opportunity is aiming to move to a larger site this year to better address demand.

"Some schools, such as St Anthony's, offer PE kits with abbreviation of students," explained the English Lady.

“I’m currently looking for ways to remove them so I can use them again.”

Marie Lanaghan, president of St. Anthony Women’s Catholic College, said uniforms can create a sense of “unity and pride” within the school, but she recognizes the cost challenges.

“We are grateful for the need to strike a balance,” she said.

“We welcome the government’s new bill, which provides clarity.”

According to DFE data, the average cost for a full school uniform and PE kit for middle school children is £442 and the average cost for primary school students is £343.