Derby City Council is once again supporting families across the city by working in partnership with Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA) and Derbion to provide school uniform to those most in need ahead of the new academic year.
Following the success of last year’s initiative, the School Uniform Hub will reopen at Derbion this August. The scheme offers families facing financial hardship access to good-quality, donated uniform to help ease the pressure of back-to-school costs.
Families can apply for support through the DF4TA self-referral portal, which is now open on their website.
Appointments will be scheduled between Monday 18 August and Friday 22 August, when the Hub will operate on an appointment-only basis. Referrals can also be made by schools and partner organisations. Agencies wishing to refer on behalf of families can register with DF4TA by emailing info@df4ta.com.
Families will be invited to the Hub in Derbion to shop for uniform and be able to access essential items such as a jumper or sweatshirt, two polo shirts or shirts, and a pair of trousers or a skirt. Where donated stock allows, additional items such as PE kits, coats and school shoes may also be provided. To help the scheme remain sustainable, families will be invited to make a small voluntary donation when collecting items, with a suggestion of £2 for a basic set or £5 for larger bundles, although no one will be turned away if unable to contribute.
Derby residents who wish to support the initiative can drop off donations of clean, good-quality school uniform and shoes at Derbion (outside Sainsbury’s on Level 1) until 22 August.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
We know that the cost of school uniform can be a real worry for many families, especially over the summer holidays when other household expenses also rise. The School Uniform Hub is a brilliant example of the Derby community coming together to support those who need a bit of extra help.
I’d like to thank everyone who donates, volunteers, or helps spread the word; your support is making a real difference to children across our city and their families.
Debbie Jones senior project co-ordinator at Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance said:
Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance School Uniform Hub has become a vital asset to our local community - a place where dignity, support, and kindness meet. In the face of the rising cost of living, we’re proud to provide this practical, much-needed resource to help ease the burden for families who are struggling. It’s a privilege to stand alongside our community and offer real, meaningful support when it’s needed most.
The School Uniform Hub is open to any family experiencing genuine financial difficulty, such as low income, changes to benefits, housing disruption, or other pressures making it difficult to meet essential costs. Priority will be given to families for whom the cost of uniform presents a significant burden.
Further information about how to apply or support the scheme is available on the Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance website.