Families encouraged to save money with second-hand school uniforms
Parents and carers in Brighton & Hove are being encouraged to consider buying and selling pre-loved school uniforms this September.
Since 2017, local initiative Smarter Uniforms has helped families save money by keeping school uniforms in circulation for longer. The scheme promotes school uniform reuse, reducing textile waste while making uniforms more affordable and accessible for families.
Almost 900 local families have already benefited from buying and selling second-hand school uniforms through the Smarter Uniforms Marketplace.
To make the process even easier, Smarter Uniforms has recently launched a new Marketplace app, allowing parents and carers to buy, sell or request school uniforms, PE kits and Yondr pouches directly from their phones.
The launch comes as new national school uniform rules take effect. From September 2026, schools are required to limit compulsory branded uniform items, such as blazers, jumpers and sportswear, to three or fewer items, plus a tie for secondary pupils.
The changes aim to make school uniforms more affordable for families while continuing to ensure pupils have a sense of belonging and pride in their school community.
Councillor Emma Daniel, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Youth Services, said: "Smarter Uniforms is helping to create a more affordable and sustainable school uniform system for families in Brighton & Hove.
"This is a really valuable resource for parents and carers at a time when many households are continuing to feel the impact of rising living costs.
"As well as helping families save money, keeping school uniforms in circulation for longer reduces waste and prevents good quality clothing from ending up in landfill. It's a simple way to support both household budgets and our environmental ambitions."