SVP sees drop in calls for help with back-to-school costs 

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) has recorded a 6% decrease in calls for support with back-to-school costs this year in what it says has been the second year in a row that back-to-school calls have decreased.

Last year, the charity saw a 20% decrease in calls for help with back-to-school costs.

SVP says the free school books scheme for all primary school pupils and junior cycle pupils in secondary school is contributing to the reduction in the need for support from the organisation.

The retention of child benefit for those still in education up to the age of 19 has also been highlighted as a factor.

However, it says requests for parent contribution fees known as ‘voluntary’ contributions or registration fees, costly uniforms, and devices such as iPads and laptops continue to place the financial burden on parents and families.

SVP national president Rose McGowan said: “We have taken calls from parents who pay these additional costs but who are going without, less food in the cupboards, the heating is off and other bills are being delayed, so that parents can cover the cost of back-to-school.”

Policy and research officer for SVP Niamh Dalziel said the high cost of school books in senior cycle is a leading reason why calls to SVP for support with the cost of education have not dropped further, and said SVP believes the Government should announce the free school books scheme for all pupils in the senior cycle as part of the upcoming budget.