Over 87 per cent of schools in England are reporting providing uniforms and clothing to some pupils to tackle the impacts of cost-of-living pressures, a new report finds.
Findings within NFER’s report, Cost-of-living crisis: Impact on schools – pupils and families, reveal the increased pressures on pupils and their families means over 90 per cent of primary, secondary and special schools are also subsidising extra-curricular activities for some pupils. In addition, 70 per cent of schools are reporting providing food to pupils through food parcels, food banks, food vouchers and subsidised breakfasts.
More generally, the majority of senior leaders (over 84 per cent across all settings) report that cost-of-living pressures have increased both the numbers of pupils requiring additional support [i] and the level of need, particularly in the most disadvantaged schools.
According to senior leaders, the crisis is also exacerbating well-being and mental health needs among pupils. Over 25 per cent of pupils in mainstream schools needed extra support for mental health and well-being this year, a significant increase from 2022. This is even higher in special schools at over 40 per cent.
