Wed, 4 Feb 2009 13:00

Consilium clothing - experts in workwear clothing.

The current economic downturn in the UK has led to an increase in demand for second-hand and affordable school workwear.

Recent research conducted by the government has revealed that many parents are currently struggling to cope with the cost of school expenses.

More people are therefore interested in purchasing uniforms from alternative, cheaper suppliers or receiving second-hand workwear.

However, the survey of 1,500 parents found that only a third of respondents were offered cut-price or free second-hand uniforms by schools.

Children minister Ed Balls said: "Uniforms are vital in instilling a sense of pride, unity and strong ethos but schools need to use common sense in balancing having a striking identity and requiring parents to buy more expensive items of clothing."

"When household budgets are tight, schools need to do everything they can to make sure parents can keep uniform costs down," he added.

The government has also advised schools to allow parents to purchase uniforms from internet or high-street outlets so as not to relay on one sole supplier with potentially high prices.

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