The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 came into effect this week, introducing statutory guidelines to reduce school uniform costs for families across Northern Ireland.

The guidelines, now issued to schools, require uniform policies for the 2026/27 school year to comply with specified requirements aimed at affordability.

Paul Doherty, founder of the Foodstock charity in Andersonstown which operates a reusable school uniform scheme, stated that the legislation 'falls far short' of expectations.

Doherty said parents were promised meaningful cost reductions, but the guidelines rely on goodwill without enforceable changes. He noted that demand for Foodstock's scheme is rising, indicating ongoing financial pressure on families.

'Uniforms, PE kits, footwear and branded items are still pushing costs into the hundreds of pounds for many families,' Doherty added.

Education Minister Paul Givan responded that the Act ensures school governing bodies prioritise affordability, comfort, practicality and sustainability in uniform decisions, preventing costs from becoming a barrier to school choice.