There’s a lot of pressure when the school holidays start and it’s a strain on the family due to the money required.
Every family’s summer looks different, and for many, the idea of a “perfect” summer is far from reality. As soon as school’s out, many families will face unique challenges – from financial hardship and health conditions to anxiety and caring responsibilities.
School’s out
When we asked parents and carers what they were worried about in relation to the summer holidays, over 1 in 3 said they are worried about food costs*.
Shockingly, when the safety net of school and that one guaranteed hot meal of the day is removed, lots of children will face holiday hunger this summer.
During the holidays my daughter would want to go out for a milkshake or a pizza, but it was just too expensive, and I remember crying because I couldn’t give her what she needed.
And we know things are only getting worse for many families, as child poverty stats continue to increase with an estimated 4.5 million children in the UK living in poverty, representing 31% of all children*.
One mum, who received a grant from Family Action told us,
Everything is going up in cost and last year I was literally choosing between bills and feeding my children. Bills will always be there, but your children need food.
It can be especially challenging for single parents, with the cost-of-living crisis and poor housing conditions affecting many.
This summer will be a struggle as food is so expensive and I get no support from my child’s father so after paying my bills, there’s nothing left.
Summer Fund offers support and joy
Our Summer Fund, now in its second year, provides families with access to local events and days out that might otherwise be out of reach. These experiences are designed to help families access healthy food, build confidence, improve mental health, and connect with local communities. Sir David Holmes CBE, Family Action Chief Executive said,
Families feel pressure to live up to unrealistic expectations of summer – packed with big trips and expensive activities. But for many of the families we work with, for lots of reasons, even accessing the simple joys of summer feels out of reach.
We’re committed to ensuring that no family feels left behind this summer. Through the Summer Fund, we are helping to create a more inclusive and compassionate community: one day out at a time.
*Family Action survey 2023
*UK Government’s Households Below Average Income statistics 2025
I know people where the only hot, nutritious meal their children get is at school so this is great for those families, so at least their children can have something.
