PARENTS across Wales can now apply for a £125 grant towards their children's school uniforms, sports kits or equipment for other activities such as Scouts and Guides.

The new £1.7 million Pupil Development Grant (PDG) was announced in June and will be available to youngsters going into reception class or year seven in September who are eligible for free school meals or in care.

It is also available for children aged four or 11 in special schools, Special Educational Needs Units or Pupil Referral Units in Wales who are eligible for free school meals or in care.

And applications are now open, with parents advised to contact their relevant local authorities directly.

Education secretary Kirsty Williams said: “We want all our pupils to have access to the same opportunities – whether in or outside of school - and PDG Access is about making sure that happens.

“We know that the costs of school uniform, sports kit and equipment for other activities can all add up so it’s really important that parents and carers are aware of this new fund and know where to apply. If you think you’re eligible for PDG Access then speak to your council today and you could soon receive £125 to help with these costs.”

And leader of Newport City Council and the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) Cllr Debbie Wilcox, a former teacher, said: “I would encourage any parents or carers who think they’re eligible for this fund to contact their local authority. Local authorities want to support all our pupils to benefit from the same opportunities, which is why WLGA will look forward to continuing discussions with Welsh Government to ensure that such vital funds are maintained and protected.”

The grant can also be used to pay for equipment for school trips or subjects such as design and technology.

In April the Welsh Government announced it would scrap the £700,000 school uniform grant offered to year seven pupils eligible for free school meals. But the news received massive backlash, and the new grant was announced two months later.

The previous scheme helped 5,500 pupils last year.