PROM SHOPPING has caused much stress and anxiety for families.

A recent report from children’s charity Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) found that expensive leaving events such as proms are becoming increasingly more difficult for parents amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Proms are frequently regarded as costly events for families with expensive dresses, tickets, hair, make up, and sometimes transport must also be considered which certainly mounts up.

One school outlined in the report is mentioned to have cost some prom-goers over £245.

READ MORE: Cost of living crisis UK: Our mission to help you save money

The argument surrounding the cost of proms had been raised prior to the pandemic in the Welsh Parliament.

Mick Antoniw, Pontypridd Member of the Senedd said:  "The concern is that we've developed this culture, it's come from America, it's become a big cultural event.

"The only trouble with it, of course, is that it has attracted some other aspects of prom culture which is limousines, expensive prom clothing, expensive parties.

"It's really great that the students can now get together and celebrate.

"But now that we have a cost-of-living crisis and a lot of pressures on parents and schools... that message on inclusivity is even stronger."

As well as the costs involved, many youngsters also face pressures from peers when it comes to prom season. The report by CPAG quotes one 17-year-old schoolgirl who said: “It’s like a competition, who can spend the most on hair, eyelashes, fake tan and stuff”.

READ MORE News and photos from schools across Flintshire and Wrexham

The report also highlights one parent’s concern who admitted there was more important things to pay for: “Sometimes it feels like a lot of money is being asked for. I can’t do it if it’s lots of times. We have to pay for more important things.”

For many parents, however, the concept of their child enjoying their school leavers celebrations is a price worth paying as Wrexham mum, Victoria Cross said: “The tax on electric, gas, petrol and food is stressing me out. Not my children or them doing things that make them happy. As a parent I will gladly do my best to make my child happy.”

Sharron Smith, owner of Alisha Bridal & Prom Dresses in Wrexham admitted that the anxiety seen amongst teenage girls is a regular sight.

She said: “We’ve seen lots of anxiety this year. The girls are so worried about body image and size, comparing themselves to other girls.

“There’s a lot of dictating who should wear which colour, as in a specific girl can only have a certain colour – totally limiting choice.

“Some parents turn up so hung up about their daughter looking the best. There’s lots of girls suffering with anxiety.”