PAYMENTS given to parents in West Dunbartonshire to pay for school uniforms are the most generous in Scotland, new figures have revealed.

West Dunbartonshire Council currently pays £100 to residents on low incomes to help them buy their son or daughter’s school clothing in advance of the new school year.

The law states all local authorities must make provision for clothing youngsters from low income families. But figures revealed this week show the level of support available varies largely between local authorities, with some only offering £20 per child.

This year 3,630 children and young people in West Dunbartonshire have been awarded a grant at a cost of £363,000.

The funding is available to residents who receive a number of benefits, with some recipients of Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credits also able to make a claim.

Councillor Michelle McGinty, convener of educational services, said: ”Over 3,000 children have already benefited from the grant this year but we’re aware that there are other people in the community who are eligible for this grant and have not yet applied and I would encourage them to get in touch with our teams.” Parents and carers can still apply for a clothing grant by calling 01389 737000.