Thousands of Irish families are facing a financial crisis this year as back-to-school expenses soar, forcing many to take on debt and make difficult sacrifices. New research highlights the growing strain on parents, with the average cost per child reaching record levels.
According to a recent survey by the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU), the average back-to-school spend is approximately €1,450 for primary school children and €1,560 for secondary school students. These figures have a direct and severe impact on household finances, with the survey revealing that one in three parents are now getting into debt, borrowing an average of €376 to cover costs.
The financial pressure is also leading to significant cutbacks on household spending. Over a third of families (37%) have had to forgo a holiday, while a worrying one in five (18%) have been forced to reduce their food budget.
Government Supports Fall Short
While the government’s Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance offers some relief, critics argue it does not go far enough. This one-off payment of €160 for children aged 4-11 and €285 for children aged 12 and over is meant to assist eligible families with uniforms and shoes.
However, charities like Barnardos highlight that parents face a multitude of other “hidden costs” that aren’t covered by the allowance. These include:
- Expensive uniforms: Many schools require specific, branded uniforms that can only be purchased from a single supplier, limiting parents’ options.
- “Voluntary” contributions: Despite being non-mandatory, many parents feel pressured to pay these contributions, which can add over €100 to their bill.
- Digital devices: With the increasing use of technology in the classroom, a new survey found that the average digital costs for a secondary school student can be as high as €430 annually.
What Parents Need to Know
The Department of Social Protection began issuing automatic payments for the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance to over 126,000 families in mid-July. Parents who don’t receive this payment automatically but believe they are eligible must apply online at MyWelfare.ie. The application deadline is September 30, 2025.
Campaigners are urging the government to increase the allowance and mandate that schools take steps to reduce unnecessary costs, such as offering generic uniform options and ending the practice of “voluntary” contributions.
