A COMMUNITY project will help struggling families in Clackmannanshire prepare children for the new academic year.

The Gate Charity's annual school uniform bank and exchange, in partnership with MSP Keith Brown and Councillor Ellen Forson, returns this month.

Now in its fourth year, it offers people the opportunity to donate their good-quality used kit and to pick-up new and second-hand school uniforms and equipment.

Marie Brownhill, manager of The Gate Centre, gave thanks for the donations so far, saying it couldn't operate without the community.

She told the Advertiser: “The project goal is to help children return to school with dignity and pride.

“Last year we provided 318 children with a school uniforms and equipment that was all kindly donated by our local community.

"We are hoping that the general community will once again support this project to help Clackmannanshire’s most vulnerable children return to school feeling equal, valued and included."

Anyone who would like to give donations can pop into The Gate Centre on weekdays, 10am-2pm, until Monday, July 16.

An open door week will then be held from Monday, July 23 until Friday, July 27, 2-4pm, and items will include the likes of blazers, bags, lunch boxes footwear, ties, equipment and nursery clothes.

Mr Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, said: “Over the last few years we have helped hundreds of children start the new term with a new school uniform and I am happy to do what I can to help again.

"I’d encourage anyone who is finding it difficult to put a school uniform together to pop into The Gate week commencing 23 July.”

Cllr Forson, leader of Clacks Council, added: “We know that many families struggle to pay for school uniforms, which are an essential part of a child’s experience at school, and this causes undue stress.

“The uniform bank helps relieve pressure on local families who are struggling to find the money to buy new uniforms and offers the opportunity to recycle good quality school clothing.

“Thanks to everyone who has donated so far – every single donation will help a child in Clackmannanshire look and feel smart going back to school."