Fears families face rising costs as schools shut down for the summer
Thousands of families face a looming "cliff-edge" of rising costs and impossible choices, charities warn, as schools prepare to break up for summer.
Nationwide and the Action for Children charity, polling 2,000 parents on Universal Credit, found around half face debt and hardship as the summer break arrives.
For more than three-quarters of those that responded, they agreed that schools provide “an important safety net” that ends this week.
And with schools closing it means an end to vital school-based support, from free school dinners and trips, activities and subsidised childcare.
Catherine Joyce, the national director for the North at Action for Children, said: “Our message to the new Prime Minister is clear: tackling the cost-of-living crisis for children and families must be a priority.
“Our front-line services see the impossible choices families face across the UK every day, and while summer is a vital time for play and adventure the pressure of costs intensify for families.
"How can we expect a child to enjoy their holidays with families concerned about paying for their next meal, let alone enriching activities?"
The research, released today, finds some two-thirds of parents are concerned about paying essential bills and funding their children's activities this summer.
At least half of those responding said they could be forced to measures such as delaying their rent or mortgage payments, taking out loans, or using Buy Now Pay Later schemes.
Of those borrowing money, a third said they would use it to buy food, while a quarter said it would go towards utility bills and another quarter said for childcare.
Almost all, some 98 per cent, said the cost-of-living will negatively impact their summer holiday plans as the summer cliff edge looms.
The charity warns such stark choices on essential costs leave low-income families at risk of summer isolation, with children missing out on fun activities and enrichment.
And one parent, commenting on a pledge from Government to cut VAT on days out, said it won't make any difference if they can't afford days out in the first place.
Family Clubs, which are funded by Nationwide and delivered by Action for Children, offer activities, a hot meal, learning opportunities and a support network. Tools have also been created, such as Nationwide’s Better Off Indicator, which can help identify unclaimed benefits.
The tough reality faced by families, said Ms Joyce, means support is "more vital than ever".
"They offer a local lifeline of access to enjoyable playtime, a hot meal, and chance to build some supportive networks for parents and children," she said.
“The Great British Summer savings scheme is welcome, but we must see further targeted support for low-income families already struggling with rising costs and affordability.
"Summer should be carefree time of exploring for children; it is these foundations which have a lifelong impact on children’s learning, development, confidence and friendships.”