DF4TA School Uniform Hub
Following the success of our pop up school uniform hub in partnership with Derbion over the last 3 years. We’re delighted to let you know our School Uniform Hub will be returning, but not as a one off pop up shop but an all year around support. It will be based in the new location called The Thoughtful Shop, located in the Derby Market Hall.
Why This Support Matters
Parents now spend on average:
- £319 per year for primary school uniform per child
- £347 per year for secondary school uniform
Need School Uniform?
Agency & Partner Referrals
Registered partner organisations, schools and support workers can refer individuals and families at any time via the DF4TA online referral portal (we ask that you do not use the customer request support form).
This ensures:
- The correct level of support is provided
- Information is handled safely and securely
- Customers receive consistent support across services
If you do not have access to the online referral system, please contact us at info@df4ta.com
Request Support (Self-Referral)
If you are struggling and feel The Thoughtful Shop may be the right support for you, you can complete a request support form.
This request will be reviewed by Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance and where appropriate. You may be offered access to The Thoughtful Shop, or signposted to another service that better meets your needs.
Walk-In Support
We strongly encourage families to apply for school uniform support before attending, as this allows us to prepare items and offer a quicker, smoother experience. If you arrive without an application, a volunteer can help you complete the request on site. Please be aware that walk-in visitors will need to be assessed for eligibility before support can be provided, and during busy periods you may be asked to wait until a volunteer is available. Submitting an application in advance will always be the quickest way to access support.
After applications have been made, the team will process and be in touch to discuss support.
Core items we will have in the shop (subject to donations)
We aim to supply each child with:
- 1 jumper/sweatshirt
- 2 polo shirts/shirts
- 1 pair of trousers/skirt
Additional items may be available depending on stock:
- PE Kits
- Coats
- Shoes
Availability depends on donated items. Blazers, logo-specific items, and ties may be limited.
Please note that there is a charge for school uniform items, which helps us keep the service sustainable and continue supporting families throughout the year.
Who can we help ?
The exact criteria varies depending on personally circumstances, but will fit around;
- People who are in financial hardship and are accepting support in addressing the root causes
- Families on a low income, struggling to provide basic family needs/items
- Those who have applied for universal credit and have not yet received a payment
- If you have had a change in benefit circumstances
- Those affected by physical and mental health issues
- If you are in a situation that has led to being short-term homeless or in the process of being rehoused
- Victims of a crime which has left them in a difficult situation short-term
- People who have no access to public funds, but who are requesting support in addressing the root causes
- Anyone facing a significant life issue, which is affecting their financial situation
- Child(ren) has no uniform at all due to starting a new school or new to the area
- Have out grown their current clothing
The Thoughtful Shop provides food, school uniform and essential household items through a dignified community shop model.
As a Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance project, “The Thoughtful Shop” will help provides food, School uniforms and everyday essentials through a dignified virtual credit system — helping individuals and families access what they need with choice and respect.