Most English schools handing out clothes and food to children

Survey finds cost of living crisis has increased both number of children needing extra support and level of need

• Holey shoes and abscessed teeth: Oldham school sees impact of cost of living crisis

Schools are handing out clothing and food to children amid the cost of living crisis, while teachers report deteriorating hygiene among pupils as families cut back on brushing teeth, showering and even flushing the toilet.

According to a survey of schools in England, nine out of 10 said they were providing clothing and uniforms for students, while seven out of 10 were giving out food in the form of parcels, food bank provisions, vouchers or subsidised breakfasts.