Our Story News and Blog Making the Summer Holidays More Manageable on a Budget With the summer holidays approaching, many families are starting to think about how to balance time, cost, and childcare over the long break. While the school holidays can be a wonderful time for children, they can also bring added pressure, especially when it comes to managing finances, keeping children entertained, and planning for six weeks away from school routines. For many parents, this time of year can feel overwhelming. But with some simple planning, low-cost ideas, and local support, it is possible to create a summer that feels more manageable. Here are some practical ways to help plan ahead and ease some of that pressure. 1. Plan simple days, not expensive ones You don’t need costly trips or a packed schedule to make the summer meaningful. Planning a few simple activities each week can help bring structure and reduce day-to-day stress. This could include park visits, baking days, craft activities, movie afternoons, or local walks. A loose plan can help children feel settled while also helping parents avoid last-minute spending. 2. Make the most of free local activities Many communities offer free or low-cost activities during the summer holidays, including library events, museum sessions, park activities, and community workshops. These can be a great way to keep children engaged, active, and social without increasing financial pressure. 3. Check what support your local council offers With the summer holidays approaching, many local councils offer a range of support for families, including holiday clubs, food programmes, and community activities. One of the main schemes available is the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, which provides eligible children with free activities and meals during the school holidays. Depending on your area, councils may also offer: Free library events and reading challenges Sports and play sessions Supermarket food vouchers or food support Family hubs and local support services Because support varies by location, it’s worth checking your local council website early to see what may be available. 4. Look into holiday clubs and childcare support early With places often filling up quickly, it can help to plan ahead and explore holiday clubs as early as possible. Many areas offer: School-based holiday clubs Sports and activity camps Community centre programmes Council-funded HAF holiday places for eligible families Some options are free or subsidised, while others may be low-cost. Planning early can help reduce stress and give families more choice. 5. Use what you already have at home Not every activity needs to cost money. Simple home-based ideas like baking, crafts, games, or themed “activity days” can help keep children entertained without additional spending. Often, the simplest activities can become the most memorable. 6. Plan meals and food shopping ahead Food costs can increase during the holidays when children are at home more often. Planning meals in advance, shopping with a list, and using online grocery delivery can help reduce impulse spending and keep track of budgets more easily. It may also be helpful to look at supermarket loyalty schemes such as: Tesco Clubcard Nectar points Lidl Plus Asda Rewards 7. Look at where additional support may be available If financial pressure is making the summer holidays feel difficult, it may help to explore what support is available. FTCT may be able to support eligible families connected to the UK fashion and textile industry by providing grants for essential items, helping to ease pressure at home and create more stability during challenging times. Helpful resources for families this summer If you’re looking for extra support during the summer holidays, these organisations and services may be helpful: MoneyHelper – Free advice on budgeting, managing household costs, and financial support Citizens Advice – Guidance on benefits, cost-of-living support, and local services Your local council website – Many councils offer free holiday activities, food programmes, family hubs, and community support during the school holidays Family Lives – Parenting support, advice, and family wellbeing resources Turn2us – Information on grants, benefits, and financial help available to families Are you a parent struggling financially? If you work in the UK fashion and textile industry and are finding it hard to make ends meet, FTCT may be able to help. We believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, which is why we provide grants to support families during challenging times. Could you apply for an FTCT grant? You may be eligible if: you work or have recently worked for a UK fashion or textile employer, and you are caring for a child under 18. FTCT supports families experiencing financial difficulties due to: Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement Being rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions Long-term low income and ongoing financial pressure What can an FTCT grant help with? Our grants can contribute towards: Clothing and school uniforms Bedroom furniture Study equipment, including laptops White goods and essential household items Specialist or sensory equipment Therapy and wellbeing support How do I apply for an FTCT grant? If you have read through all our criteria and would like to apply, please complete our online enquiry form. Don’t work in fashion or textiles? If you have never worked for a UK fashion or textile company, unfortunately we won't be the right charity for you. Please try this list of other charities who might be able to help your family. Related FTCT support You might also be interested in: A Gentle Financial Reset for Families What to Do When Bills Pile Up Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know Manage Cookie Preferences