This month, as part of our Support in the Community Initiative, we’re shining a spotlight on our Charity of the Month – The School Bank West Lothian.

The West Lothian charity was founded in 2016 by Kirstin Shemilt who wanted to help families experiencing financial hardship by providing them with new and reused school uniforms, PE kit, footwear and other equipment required for the school day – ensuring every child can attend school with their head held high.

New and good conditioned uniforms, which are donated at various drop-off points, including Sainsbury’s in Livingston, are distributed by referrals from organisations working with families in the local areas, including Social Workers, Housing Officers, Women’s Aid, Health Visitors and other agencies including Citizens Advice Bureau, Home Start and the West Lothian Advice Shop.

Due to a rise in referrals this year, the charity is appealing for even more donations, either individual essential items like uniform or school bags or by ‘Sponsoring a Child’ where full, new packs can be donated to enable them to support even more children and help improve their overall educational experience.

Last year they received almost 1,600 referrals for young people in West Lothian. The demand is highest over the summer months and the charity forecasts they are likely to receive over 800 referrals this summer for children to support them on their return to school in August.

As part of our charity partnership The School Bank West Lothian will receive a £250 Gift Card donation and free pop-up space in the mall on 29th and 30th July to help raise awareness of the work that they do and appeal for donations of new and used uniforms, PE kits and jackets, in good condition. Why not pop along for more information?

You can also find out more about The School Bank West Lothian, and the work that they do, via their website at www.schoolbank-westlothian.org