Why the basics matter – and how they change everything

In Greater Manchester, one in every three children grows up in poverty – that’s roughly 37%, or 11 children out of a class of 30, facing financial hardship every single day (Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity).

In Manchester city alone, the figure climbs even higher to 44%, nearly half of all children (Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity).

These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent thousands of children navigating daily life without the essentials many of us take for granted.

The rising cost of simply showing up to school

The cost of sending a child to school continues to rise, and for families already struggling, it can be crippling. Research shows that families now spend at least £1,000 a year for a primary school child, and nearly £2,300 for a secondary school pupil, covering expenses such as uniforms, books, school trips, and meals.

A required school uniform alone often costs well over £200 per child.

For families in poverty, these costs can mean impossible choices: Do you pay for proper shoes, or cover the week’s groceries?

How basics like uniform and stationery change everything

While experts continue to debate the academic benefits of uniforms, the evidence is clear when it comes to school attendance and engagement.

One study found that providing a school uniform reduced absenteeism by 44%, and by as much as 62% for pupils who had none before, also improving test scores by 0.25 standard deviations (University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, Poverty Action Lab).

Another study found that schools with uniform policies often saw fewer disciplinary issues and a cleaner, calmer environment (Parents.com).

Put simply: having the right basics isn’t charity, it’s the gateway to participation, belonging, and success.

A level playing field in action

A child who has:

• A fitting uniform – not an oversized hand‑me‑down
• A sturdy schoolbag – not a carrier bag
• A stocked pencil case – not a broken pencil
• Shoes that fit – not ones with holes

…walks into school feeling confident, ready to learn, and included in the classroom community.

That sense of dignity and belonging isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s often the spark that changes a child’s entire educational journey.

Wood Street Mission: restoring fairness for Manchester children

Our Smart Start programme works to create that level playing field for children across Manchester and Salford, providing school uniforms, bags, stationery, shoes and more to families in need, completely free of charge (Save the Children, End Child Poverty).

By removing the barriers caused by poverty, we help ensure no child misses out on education simply because of their family’s income.

For donors and partners

When a family is under financial strain, even a pack of pens or a sweatshirt can feel like a mountain to climb, it’s another thing on what feels like a never-ending list.

Your support helps us provide practical, dignity‑preserving essentials that make a real and immediate difference.

Working together, we can make sure every child in Manchester walks into school on equal footing, with the confidence and tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive.