This yeard, the maximum income threshold hsa been raised to £16,500 across West Dunbartonshire. Parents are now being encouraged to submit their claim for free school meals and clothing grants to ensure they receive their money in time for the start of the new term.

Parents of children who received clothing grants or free school meals last year will automatically be awarded, as the council is using the same process to pay claims Parents whose circumstances have changed since last year and any new applicants need to complete a new application.

To claim clothing grants and free school meals, parents must be in receipt of the following benefits: •           Income Support •           Job Seekers Allowance, income based •           Pension Credit •           Employment and Support Allowance, income related •           Maximum Working and Child Tax credit with income less than £6,420 per annum •           Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 To claim free school meals parents must receive child tax credit, with an income of less than £16,500 per annum.

Parents who receive Housing and Council Tax Benefit or Working Tax Credit with a gross annual income of up to £15,860 are also entitled to claim clothing grants for their children.

Councillor Michelle McGinty, convener of Educational Services, said: “ I would encourage residents who are entitled to claim to apply now to ensure they have their money well in advance of the new school term.

"I understand the financial strain faced by parents and how expensive it is to kit the kids out for going back to school.  In the current financial climate, this money will be a welcome boost for families and I hope everyone who is entitled to receive this money contacts the council and submits their claim.” Applications forms are available from the following council offices: Dumbarton Housing Office, Bridge Street, Dumbarton G82 1NT One Stop Shop, 17 Mitchell Way, Alexandria. G83 OLW Further advice is also available from the Council’s Contact Centre on 01389 738282 and application forms can be completed online at www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk.