We have recently moved and both my children are starting new schools in September. I will have to buy uniforms and PE kit, and then they’ll need to catch the bus each day.

I’m not sure how I will be able to cover these extra costs as I’m already pretty stretched. Is there any help I can get?

You’re not alone in your worries, a lot of people are feeling the squeeze at the moment and a new school year can put pressure on budgets. Fortunately, there is help available.

A good place to start is the Citizens Advice website (https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/) where you’ll find lots of information on the support you might be entitled to for school-related costs.

If you’re on a low income, your Local Education Authority may be able to help you with activity and school uniform costs.

If you get means-tested benefits like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit you’re likely to be considered to be on a low income. In some places there are also local charitable schemes that can help.

A good place to find out about these is the school itself or Parent Teacher Association (PTA) both will usually know if these kinds of schemes exist. Also, check whether the school sells second hand uniforms.

The help you can get to cover school lunches will vary depending on how old your children are and if you claim benefits.

Children in Reception, Year 1 and 2 automatically get free school meals. You can apply for free school meals for older children if you claim certain types of benefits, including Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit and Income Support. The full list is available on the Citizens Advice website.

It may be possible to get help with your children’s travel costs. If your child can't walk to school because of special educational needs or disabilities they should get free school transport.

You may be able to get help with transport costs from your Local Education Authority if your children can’t walk because it's dangerous or too far.

Your Local Education Authority is part of your local council that deals with education in your area, you can find yours on GOV.UK.

Contact it directly to find out exactly what support it offers. For more information visit the Citizens Advice website (https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/).

For more personalised support contact your local Citizens Advice or call our Adviceline on 0800 144 8848.

Citizens Advice Welwyn Hatfield: https://www.cawelhat.org.uk/contact/.