Thousands are ‘failing to claim school allowance’

TENS of thousands of families may be missing out on the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance because they are failing to claim for it.

The Department of Social and Family Affairs plans a radio campaign to get more eligible families to apply for the allowance.

A fund of €38 million is available this year but the fear is that tens of thousands of families who would qualify each year do not even submit applications.