Dungannon Cllrs issue advice on school uniform grants

LOCAL SDLP councillors Denise Mullen and Sharon McAleer have encouraged parents to apply for free school meals and uniform grants in time for the new term.
Cllr Denise MullenCllr Denise Mullen
Cllr Denise Mullen

Cllr Mullen said: “A number of local parents have raised concerns about their possible exclusion from free school meals and school uniform grants in the next school year due to the introduction of a higher qualifying income threshold.”

Cllr Mullen said criteria are set out by the Department of Education and that she and her colleagues are happy to advise on accessing the grants.

Cllr McAleer added: “All those seeking to apply should ensure application forms are completed and sent to their local Board in plenty of time for processing before the start of the next school year. The Boards will process applications as they receive them and it may take up to six weeks to administer each claim.”

Cllr Mullen ended by saying, “The SELB can be contacted on 3751 2523 for further information on school uniform grants and free school meals. Your local SDLP representatives are also available to help if any other assistance is needed and we can be contacted through our Mid Ulster Constituency office on 028 8675 8175.”