Ask the Money Doctor: John Lowe on family finance

Question: I dread the start of the school year and find it increasingly difficult to cope financially. The books get more expensive each year, plus there is the uniform, sports gear and the rest. Could I still be entitled to any government subsidies?

*Catherine, Shannon, Co Clare*

**Answer:** I really empathise with you and the thousands of families similarly affected. Families are spending an average of €400 per child for returning to school, ...