Back to school campaign to support Walsall families

  • 26th August 2021

  • Customers

whg has launched a campaign to support families as children head back to school this September.

The Midlands’ housing association has partnered with EMR Metal Recycling, based in Darlaston, to prepare families for the new term through its ACE project, part of its social value work.

EMR has donated £3,000 to launch  the scheme, which will be used to provide uniform and PE kits for 30 pupils in Walsall. whg has added a further £2,000 to the pot.

whg’s Head of Health and Wellbeing Connie Jennings said: “We are delighted to be working with EMR on this important project, which we hope will make a huge difference to families in Walsall.

“The cost of school uniforms can make the start of term very stressful for some families who maybe  forced to apply for high interest  loans or go without food or heating to ensure their children have the right items  for school.

“Research by the Children’s Society indicates that 23% of parents have had to send their child to school in worn,  ill-fitting or the wrong school uniform. This can Iead to children being bullied,  feeling left out and, in some instances being sent home and excluded from school through no fault of their own.

“We want this project to provide much needed practical support to families today while also offering parents opportunities to improve their situation in the future.

“Therefore, alongside providing school uniforms  parents will be able to access help  from our Social Prescribing team who will support them to increase their confidence and skills. They can then move onto  support from our Employment and Training team who can help parents into work or into improved employment opportunities.”

EMR Darlaston General Manager, Stef Stewart, added: “The COVID-19 pandemic has detrimentally impacted many families , whom therefore need our support now more than ever.

We are proud to partner with whg to deliver school uniforms to children whose families may struggle to provide them. Ensuring that children are fully equipped for their school day means that they will be able to focus on learning and making the most of their education.”

 

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