EASING THE BURDEN: RACING WELFARE’S RETURN TO SCHOOL GRANT SUPPORTS FAMILIES IN NEED
Over the summer holidays, many parents across the horseracing industry are already thinking ahead to September – and the growing costs that come with a new school year. From school-branded uniforms and shoes to PE kits and stationery, these expenses can mount quickly, placing financial and emotional strain on families already balancing the demands of daily life.
Racing Welfare understands how these pressures can affect both the financial wellbeing and mental health of working parents. That’s why the charity is once again offering a Return to School Grant to help families manage these essential but often overwhelming costs. Eligible individuals working within the racing and breeding industries can apply for a grant of £100 per school-aged child (up to four children per household), to ease the burden of back-to-school expenses.
In 2024 alone, Racing Welfare issued 101 Return to School grants, totalling more than £20,000, and helping at least 200 children prepare for the classroom with confidence. So far this year, with just under three weeks remaining of the application period, 79 grants have been awarded, helping 156 children and totalling £15,600.
A racing groom in Newmarket, who wished to remain anonymous, was one such person to access the grant for his children last year. Speaking of the impact the grants had upon his family and finances, he said: “It is very expensive with three kids and my house is expensive – rent in Newmarket is very high and my wife is not working. It was very helpful because for example with three kids I have to get uniform, shoes, jumper, shirts. It helps my financial situation because I can’t buy uniform, but then [with the grant] we can easily buy it. If they didn’t help us, it’s very hard.
“They are good for racing people because everything is very expensive. I do not earn very much, I have my family, live in rented houses so we need this help. Very kind, Racing Welfare help everyone in racing and we are thankful.”
The need for support is greater than ever. Research from Turn2Us reveals that 40% of British parents worry about affording back-to-school costs, and 37% fear that the added expense could impact their ability to cover essential household bills. With Department for Education figures showing the average cost of a full school uniform and PE kit at £442 for secondary pupils and £343 for primary, it’s clear these aren’t minor outlays – they’re major considerations for families on tight budgets.
Lucy Miller, Regional Welfare Manager at Racing Welfare said: “For many children, having the correct uniform is about more than just clothing. It’s about belonging, inclusion, and starting the school year with pride. Our Return to School Grant helps do just that, ensuring children across racing communities can walk into school feeling prepared and confident, and that their parents can breathe a little easier. We encourage all eligible racing industry families to apply and take advantage of this vital support before the closing date of 29th August.
“None of this would be possible without the generosity of The John Pearce Foundation, who continue to fund our targeted grants programme and we’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support.”
Applications can be made via Racing Welfare’s Lightning portal which can be accessed here: http://racingwelfare.co.uk/info-support/return-to-school-grant-2025/