A charity is warning that many children will go without warm clothing this winter.
A recent YouGov survey for children’s charity Barnardo’s found that 15% of parents in Scotland fear they won’t manage to buy appropriate winter clothing for their youngsters.
The study also revealed that 20% of parents are worried about the adequacy of their child's coat, even though it is all they can afford.
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Aimee, a mother of two from North Lanarkshire, explained how she and her husband have gone about sourcing winter coats for their children.
She said: “We get a lot of the kids’ clothes from places like the second-hand online fashion marketplace Vinted and charity shops.
“You’re still looking at £15–£20 for a second-hand coat, and I’ve noticed the cost difference between winter clothing and other items.
“I can’t justify spending £50–£60 on a new jacket for them when they’re going to grow out of it in six months.
“I can absolutely see why people struggle with winter clothing because of how expensive it is.”
In many instances, Barnardo’s has had to step in to help families in dire situations.
One such case included a mother and her two daughters, aged one and three, who fled their home due to domestic abuse and had to leave all their belongings behind.
Barnardo’s helped by providing new coats and warm pyjamas for the family.
Last year, Barnardo’s worked with thousands of children across Scotland through more than 150 services and partnerships.
Across the UK, they provided essential support to 373,200 children, young people, parents and carers through more than 800 services and partnerships.
The charity has been backed by many high-profile figures, including actor Dame Helen Mirren.
Speaking about her support for the charity, she said: “When families are living from hand to mouth, as so many families are in the UK even today, it just takes one thing to go wrong and they can be in a crisis.
“It’s heartbreaking that so many children will be hungry and cold this winter, and too many families will be dreading the festive season.
“That’s why Barnardo’s is helping families keep the heating on and the fridge full.”
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The charity is now calling on the public to donate funds or pre-loved children’s winter coats at Barnardo’s shops to help families in need.
To donate, volunteer or fundraise for the charity, visit the Barnardo’s website.
Martin Crewe, director of Barnardo’s Scotland, said: “It is simply not right that across Scotland, too many children are facing a harsh winter without the basics they need to stay warm, healthy and hopeful.
“Behind the sparkle of the festive season we know there will be children worrying about having enough to eat, making do with a coat that’s too small and feeling left out of the celebrations.
“That’s why this winter – and all year round – Barnardo’s supports children and their families to keep the power on and the fridge stocked, helping with the essentials to ease some of the worry.
“We couldn’t do this without the generous support from the public.
“By donating to Barnardo’s today, you can help to give Christmas back to children living in poverty.”
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