Wokingham councillors have backed a motion to encourage all schools in Wokingham Borough to keep their school uniforms simple, and not to increase costs for parents.
Wokingham Borough councillors agreed to encourage all schools to consider the financial implications of costly branded uniforms and sports kits.
The council will npw contact every school in the borough, encouraging them to keep uniform design changes to a minimum, and are made infrequently.
The council will also encourage schools to allow more options of non-school branded uniform items, and will actively promote the uptake of second-hand uniforms.
Shinfield councillor Vishal Srinivasan, proposed the motion.
He said: “Companies making school jumpers and jackets charge very high prices – much higher than the generic unbranded version with the same colour, without a badge.
“This tax on parents should not be compulsory, and parents should have the choice whether they want to pay the premium.
“Our job as councillors is to help the community and make sure we represent all parents.”
Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, leader of the conservative group, seconded the motion.
She said: “I am pleased that by passing this motion, we will be able to support local charities, like First Days and Cowshed, to make uniforms more affordable.
“Children without the branded uniforms and PE kit stand out, and can be stigmatised.
“It is important that uniforms are kept simple for all children to prevent that from happening.
The motion was approved unanimously at the recent full council meeting.
