Joy or isolation? The reality of the school holidays for many children in poverty

The school summer holidays should be a joyful time for children and parents. Every child deserves to laugh, play and have fun over the summer, and parents too should have the chance to enjoy making memories and spending time with their children. But CPAG research has found that millions of families anticipate struggling to afford essential items, childcare and typical summer experiences for their children over the long break.

CPAG’s recent survey of parents receiving income-related benefits highlights the strength of families’ worries about making ends meet. Forty-eight per cent of parents are more fearful than they were last summer that they won’t be able to afford things for their child over the holidays. This financial strain means that many families will have no choice but to rely on food and clothing banks to get through the summer. Nearly a third of parents expect to fall into debt to cover childcare costs, while 36 per cent say that the lack of affordable childcare will force them to cut back on work over the holidays, further undermining their incomes.

When families can’t afford the basics, it also means that children miss out on the simple joys of summer such as days out to the beach or the zoo, or even just hanging out with their friends. Many children in low-income families will be left spending long and lonely days at home in cramped or insecure housing while their parents work and their friends are out enjoying the break. Parents are also worried their children will be bullied as a result of lack of money over the holidays. This can lead to children feeling isolated and can take a real toll on their happiness and mental wellbeing – a concern flagged by 52 per cent of parents.

Despite promises from the government on improved living standards and opportunities for everyone, 57 per cent of parents say they will need more support this year than last. It is clear that warm words aren’t enough and what is needed is an effective child poverty strategy from the government. Investment in support for families – including scrapping the two-child limit – must be central to that plan, to ensure that every child has the chance to experience a summer filled with joy and laughter, not hunger and isolation.