Wear Stars 4 Little Stars Week is back, and this year we need you more than ever!
We are so excited to announce that Wear Stars 4 Little Stars Week is back for 2026! From 22nd to 28th June, we are inviting schools, businesses, and communities across Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin to come together, get creative, and help raise vital funds for our Cool for School Campaign.
But before we tell you how to get involved, we want to share why it matters so much.
The reality facing families in our community
For many families across Shropshire, the cost of school uniform — which can reach up to £289 for a secondary school pupil — can place families under enormous pressure, creating real financial strain. One parent told us:
“I had to choose between feeding my children and buying school uniform… I chose to feed them.” Parent, Little Stars service user
A 2024 Department for Education survey found that 18% of children whose families faced financial hardship due to uniform costs had been sent home from school for not wearing the correct uniform. No child should miss school because their family cannot afford the right clothes. That is exactly why we do what we do.
About our Cool for School Campaign
Since launching in 2023, our Cool for School Campaign has already supported over 905 children across Shropshire with school uniform essentials — from polo shirts and school shoes to PE kits and school bags. While we are incredibly grateful for every donation of pre-loved uniforms we receive, our stock doesn’t always stretch to every size or item a child needs. That’s where your fundraising support makes such a difference — helping us fill the gaps and reach even more children.
Last year, a £1,000 grant from The High Sheriff’s Fund 2025, administered by Shropshire Community Foundation, enabled us to provide additional support for secondary school pupils. This year, funds raised during Wear Stars 4 Little Stars Week will help ensure our youngest pupils are equally well supported.
“We see every day the difference it makes when a child has the right school uniform and essentials. It’s not just about clothing — it’s about confidence, belonging, and giving children the best possible start to their school day. Wear Stars 4 Little Stars Week is a simple but powerful way for our community to come together, and the creativity people bring to it never fails to inspire us.” Chantal, Fundraising Coordinator, Little Stars
How to get involved
Getting involved couldn’t be simpler! On any day during the week commencing 22nd June, wear stars or your comfiest pyjamas, make a donation of £1 or more, snap a photo and share it on social media using #WearStars4LittleStars. Last year, 12 businesses and schools took part alongside many individual donors — and this year we are hoping to reach even more of our wonderful community.
If you want to do something a little more ambitious, there are so many creative ways to get involved; from bake sales and charity quizzes to businesses competing in our Best Dressed Team Challenge on Friday 26th June. However you choose to take part, every pound raised makes a real difference to a child in our community.
“The extra clothing means less pressure on families, and children can attend school feeling clean and confident.” Referral Partner
New for 2026: families can now self-refer for support
We are really proud to share that for the first time, families can now self-refer directly for support through our Cool for School service. Previously, families could only access support through a professional referral partner. Now, any parent or carer in Shropshire who is struggling with the cost of school uniform can come straight to us — no referral partner needed. If that’s you, or someone you know, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
⭐ Get involved in Wear Stars 4 Little Stars Week
Download your free fundraising pack and find everything you need to take part at littlestarscharity.org
Donate via our JustGiving page: justgiving.com/campaign/wearstars4littlestarsweek2026
Get in touch: events@littlestarscharity.org
💛 Are you a family in need of support?
If you are struggling with the cost of school uniform, we are here to help. You can now self-refer directly through our website — no referral partner needed.
Apply for support at littlestarscharity.org/cool-for-school
