Cost of Living Support & Advice
We know that many of the families at Penistone Grammar School will be facing financial pressures as a result of the increasing cost of living. Both energy costs and other living expenses have risen significantly and are presenting a real challenge for our students, their families and the wider community.
In response to the current economic situation we are pleased to announce that we are able to offer support in school to students / parents / carers who are facing forms of financial difficulty but are not necessarily eligible for Universal Credit or other benefits. There are a number of in-school initiatives which families can access; more information can be found about these by clicking here.
We are also able to signpost you towards external sources of help. There are a number of organisations who are able to provide direct advice and support, more information can be found by clicking here. (Please note: Penistone Grammar School is not affiliated to any of the organisations shown.)
School Support
As part of our commitment to supporting the wellbeing of our entire school community we are keen to provide help within school which is accessible, relevant, and conducive to creating an environment in which all students can thrive.
The initiatives listed below are available to all students and their families, and do not require parents / carers to provide proof of eligibility. We understand that circumstances can change very quickly; our primary concern is to ensure that help is given as swiftly as possible in order to limit negative impact on our students.
At the current time we are focusing on four key areas:
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a community uniform / clothing bank
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providing "breakfast for all"
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free period products
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support with laptops / technology.
Should you require further information, or have any questions, you can contact us at schoolsupport@penistone-gs.uk
Pupil Premium
Here at Penistone Grammar School we have a fully-staffed, dedicated Pupil Premium space which supports our PP students. For example, to support with trip participation, an educational school trip fund is available, with non-educational trips also being subsidised up to 20% of the cost.
Free School Meals
Apply here for free school meals
If you or your child receives a qualifying benefit, you could be eligible for free school meals. This could save you up to £400 a year, as well as your child then also being eligible for the BMBC Healthy Holidays school holiday clubs.
Eligibility
Your child qualifies for free school meals if you receive:
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Universal Credit with an annual net earned income threshold of less than £7400
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income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
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income-related Employment and Support Allowance
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Income Support
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Child Tax Credit with an annual income of less than £16,190 (as long as you don't receive Working Tax Credit)
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Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit)
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the 'guaranteed' element of the State Pension Credit
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support under part six of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
Your child may also be entitled to a free school meal because of a benefit they receive in their own right.
Breakfast
We understand it may become hard to feed your child(ren) during the cost of living crisis.
At Penistone Grammar School, there is the option for students who haven't already eaten breakfast to grab a cereal bar and piece of fruit as they enter the school building.
We are keen to ensure that no child in our school community goes hungry.
External Support
External support is available to help students and families with a variety of needs. External agencies such as your local council, food banks, and mental health services can provide assistance with the cost of living, budgeting, and other forms of help and support.
Mental health services can provide support to students struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Food banks can help provide food to students and their families who need assistance with meeting their nutritional needs. Charities such as StepChange can provide advice if you are struggling with debts or paying bills.
If you would like any further advice regarding the current cost of living crisis and to look into other options available, please use the links below to access relevant sources of support. (Please note: Penistone Grammar School is not affiliated to these organisations and clicking will take you to external websites.)