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The summer holidays are a great time to have some fun with the family and make happy memories, but we know they can also put extra pressure on your household budget. With children at home for six weeks, the cost of food , activities and childcare can soon add up.
If you're worried about money this summer, you are not alone. There is support available, and there are lots of free or low-cost activities to help keep children entertained.
Find free activities near you
You don't have to spend a lot to have a good summer. Many local libraries, parks, museums, family hubs and community groups run free or affordable activities throughout the school holidays.
If your child is eligible for the Holidays Activities and Food programmes, they may be able to enjoy free activities and meals during the school holidays. Activities can include sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures and creative workshops.
If you live in York
The City of York Council provide a Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme offering free holiday clubs, activities and meals for eligible children.
Find out more: Holiday Activities and Food – City of York Council and NYES Info
If you live in East Riding of Yorkshire
Eligible children can take part in a range of free activities during the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays through the local HAF programme.
Find out more: Holiday activities and food
If you live in North Yorkshire
The FEAST programme offers free holiday activities and meals for eligible children and young people across the county.
Find out more: FEAST Activities - North Yorkshire Together
If you live in Hartlepool
Hartlepool Holiday Fun offers free activities for eligible children during the school holidays.
Find out more: Hartlepool Holiday Fun | Hartlepool Borough Council and After school. In place of school. Beyond school.
Could you be missing out on financial support?
The summer holiday can be a good time to check if you’re receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to. A benefits check could increase your household income by identifying benefits, grants or other support you may not be aware of.
If you are finding it difficult to manage, it’s always better to get advice early rather than wait until money worries become bigger problems.
We’re here to help
Our Money and Benefits Advice (MBA) team offers free, confidential and impartial advice. They can help with:
- checking you're receiving the benefits you're entitled to
- budgeting and managing household bills
- debt and money worries
- finding additional financial support
If you'd like to speak to the team, please get in touch - email mba@jrht.org.uk or call 0800 587 0211. We're here to help you find the support that's right for you.