In a twist that will surprise absolutely no one who has looked at a paycheck recently, a food bank in Kent is now handing out school uniforms to families who are, technically, employed. The Community Cupboard, which runs out of West Kingsdown and Swanley, has started offering pre-loved school uniforms during the holidays, because apparently the 'working poor' is a demographic that exists beyond just a catchy phrase.

Founder Tracey Wood, who has been running the charity for seven years, notes that they're seeing 'a lot of teachers, teaching assistants, a lot of hospital staff, self-employed' - you know, the people we clapped for during the pandemic and then promptly forgot. 'The money they have each month coming in is what's going out so once something goes wrong - be it the car, the washing machine - it just tips them over,' she said, describing the precarious financial tightrope that many families walk daily.

One teaching assistant, who wished to remain anonymous (probably fearing their employer might think they can't afford to work there), said that despite being paid over the summer, it's 'still not enough to pay for something every single day.' Meanwhile, Laura, a full-time carer for her husband and children, said that without the uniform bank, her kids would be wearing uniforms that are too small, or she'd have to grovel to the school for help. Because nothing says 'dignity' like begging for a slightly larger polo shirt.

Agata, a mother of three, has been receiving 'massive support' from the charity. Her two eldest can still squeeze into last year's uniforms, but her youngest needs new ones with school logos - and we all know that logo is where they get you. 'If I can get anything second hand, it is a massive help because when you have that logo requirement the prices go triple straight away,' she said, adding, 'I'm not the person that usually asks for help, but I think then children are really the one that's paying the price at the moment.'

From September, schools can no longer mandate more than three uniform items with branding (plus a branded tie for secondary schools, because heaven forbid we save parents a few quid on a tie). Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children's Society, says parents are 'going into debt over the summer holidays' and 'skipping meals.' He welcomed the changes but promised to 'keep an eye on the cost of uniform, even with these new changes, and if we need to campaign for further change then we'll do that.' Because apparently, we need to campaign for the basic right to dress your child without remortgaging your house.

So, as we head into another school year, let's raise a glass (or a budget-friendly packed lunch) to the Community Cupboard and all the other organizations filling the gaps that the system leaves wide open. And if you're a teacher, hospital staff, or self-employed professional who needs help, remember: there's no shame in asking. The shame is on a society that makes you have to.