East Dunbartonshire to Pilot Fair Trade School Uniforms Campaign

On 19 May East Dunbartonshire Council announced that it has been asked by the Scottish Fair Trade Forum to pilot a new school based national initiative which aims to empower teachers and pupils to source and raise awareness of ethically produced school uniforms and sportswear.

East Dunbartonshire began supporting the Scottish Fair Trade Forum’s School Uniform Campaign at the beginning of 2010, an initiative that aims to get Fair Trade uniforms and sports kits in all schools by 2015.

The main purpose of the campaign is to:

• Advise schools to switch their uniform and sportswear to Fairtrade and show suppliers that there is a demand
• Develop pupils’ knowledge, understanding and skills, empowering them to take on social responsibilities and to effect change

The School Uniform Campaign will be introduced to local schools by a Working Group comprising of various local stakeholders with schools becoming self-sufficient after initial training. The success of the pilot phase will then be evaluated before rolling out on a national level.

Councillor Una Walker, Convener of the Education Services Committee said, “This is an important initiative for East Dunbartonshire as we all have a responsibility to consider the effects of our actions on the world around us. I think this is a great opportunity for teachers and pupils to continue to learn and support Fairtrade issues within the local community."

To read the original article click here.

To read the full press release from East Dunbartonshire council click here.