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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 five key areas:
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an in-house food bank
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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
In England in 2020, children in state-funded schools were entitled to receive free school meals if a parent or carer were in receipt of any of the following benefits:
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Income Support
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Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
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Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
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The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
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Child Tax Credit (provided they were not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and had an annual gross income of no more than £16,190, as assessed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs)
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Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
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Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits)
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.
Food & Clothing Bank
Penistone Grammar School has long supported local causes, and will continue to do so, but we are now also providing our own food and clothing bank in school to specifically support our students, families and staff.
If you require support with food or school uniform please complete the form at the top of the page and one of the team will get back to regarding your request.
Laptop Support
*Information coming soon.*
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.)