Parents Struggle to Afford Back-to-School Costs | Cork News

Parents across Ireland are facing crushing back-to-school costs, with over a quarter of secondary school families and one in five primary families dipping into savings just to get kids ready. Even more alarming: 15% of secondary parents and 9% of primary parents resorted to loans or borrowing from loved ones — often choosing between bills and school supplies. Many feel left out by the back-to-school allowance, which they narrowly miss qualifying for. Digital devices are a major headache, with 57% of secondary parents spending an average of €447 on them — often forced to buy expensive, non-negotiable models. Barnardos is demanding urgent action: a review of device pricing, affordable uniforms, expanded allowance eligibility, and a code of conduct for voluntary contributions to ease the financial squeeze on families. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f8743bbcb81d7441