School’s out! Since the end of June, Scottish kids have been free of the shackles of homework. Now, all across the UK children are ready for a summer of play. As lovely as it might be to have them home, parents know the drill. Entertaining them for six weeks is a challenge. And you have to do it without breaking the bank.
In the cost of living crisis, it is harder than ever. The lifeline of free school meals and childcare is ripped away for many families. It means more mouths to feed when grocery shopping has never been more expensive, and finding childcare when you can’t afford to take the time off work.
A place at a holiday club now costs an average of £157 a week, according to children’s charity Coram. Many people rely on the support of family and friends to look after their children, although that isn’t always possible.
With added costs of food and buying new school uniforms for next term, it can be worrying. But there is help available for families who need support, and The Big Issue’s Summer Survival Guide is back to help you navigate the holidays.
We’ve rounded up our top tips and tricks to keep kids happy and healthy, and we’ll keep directing families to the places they can get help in the magazine and on bigissue.com over the summer.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!
It’s no secret that food shopping is getting pricier and pricier, so we’ve answered your questions about free and affordable food this summer
CAN KIDS GET FREE SCHOOL MEALS OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS?
Whether your child is eligible for free school meals over the summer holidays
