As the cases of violence by young people have increased by 39 per cent over three years to 56,000 violent incidents in 2006 / 2007 (Youth Justice Board, May 2008), a new survey reveals that parents and school children feel that school uniforms could be the latest weapon in the fight to reduce youth crime and anti social behaviour.

Anti social behaviour and other crimes committed by young people more often than not, occur outside school hours.  The research, conducted by schoolwear supplier, Trutex, reveals that 46 per cent of parents and 37 per cent of children feel wearing a uniform actually improves behaviour outside school.

Wearing a school uniform makes children less likely to misbehave according to 55 per cent of parents, with 50 per cent of parents putting this down to fact that children can be easily identified and 42 per believing that school uniform instils a sense of discipline.  This view is also shared by the majority of school children, with 54 per cent saying that a school uniform makes children less likely to misbehave.

The survey also shows that 62 per cent of parents believe that school uniforms help develop better relations between peer groups and the vast majority, 84 per cent, think that uniforms help school children feel part of a team. 

An often overlooked benefit of school uniform, is the impact it has on truancy.  Over half of parents, 53 per cent and 46 per cent of children, think that wearing a uniform means children are less likely to skip school, many feel that this is due to the possibility of being identified.

Furthermore, the survey also shows that younger children, aged 9 to ten years, feel more strongly about the positive effects uniforms can have on reducing anti social behaviour.  The same is true of parents of younger children.

Daniel Tomlinson, Trutex marketing manager commented:

 "The benefits of wearing a school uniform have long been established, including reducing peer pressure, instilling discipline, self pride etc... but the perceived impact on behaviour, in particular anti social behaviour is relatively new. 

"The survey shows that school uniform has become a necessary precursor to raising both parents' and children's expectations and its enforcement can help to foster and promote good behaviour in and outside the classroom."