Edinburgh School Uniform Bank
1815. Julia Grindley
Julia Grindley, from Edinburgh, leads the 'Edinburgh School Uniform Bank', which distributes school uniforms and other essential items to families in the city who are facing financial hardship.
‘Edinburgh School Uniform Bank’ is entirely voluntary run and was set up in response to reports that school children were asking Santa for basic school uniform items and underwear for Christmas. Julia and other volunteers collect donations of money and clothes and put together “Back to School” packs for children from families in need. Julia has played a key role in keeping the service open for families while working with donors, volunteers and partners to make sure that every child and young person in Edinburgh has a school uniform.
In a personal letter to Julia, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“Thank you for your fantastic initiative, ‘The Edinburgh School Uniform Bank’. In the last year alone, you have donated over 1,200 back to school packs ensuring that every child has access to quality uniform.
“You have created an impressive support network where families can go for help without any stigma. Such community spirit has been more important than ever throughout the pandemic and I wish you every success as you continue your work.”
Julia said:
“We are honoured to receive this recognition of the work of ‘Edinburgh School Uniform Bank’. Our team works so hard to give children the best chances in life and to make sure that everyone can go to school feeling comfortable, confident, and fitting in with their peers. We bring together the whole community to support families who are facing tough challenges, and our thanks go to everyone who contributes to this effort.”