New research has revealed a number of parents are going without food in order to ensure they can afford back to school costs.

A study by children's charity Barnardos revealed some individuals are also forgoing paying household bills as they struggle to meet the expense of back to school clothing, the Journal reports.

Chief executive officer at Barnardos Fergus Finlay said: "The parents who responded to our survey are also showing real fear and concern at how they are going to make sure their children have what they need to get an education."

He added that many parents are being forced to make "very difficult choices" and are getting themselves in debt in order to pay for uniforms, books and other education expenses.

It was noted the basic cost of sending a six-year-old to senior infants is now €355, while the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance has reduced from €200 to €150.

Written by Donal Walsh

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