Help during the school holidays
The summer school holidays can be a stressful time for families, especially when everyday costs are so high. Taking advantage of support that's on offer is important to make sure your money stretches as far as possible. We're highlighting some of the help on offer, from free childcare to help with buying essentials and activities to keep the little ones busy.
Free childcare
Children aged three and four (and some two-year-olds) get free early education and childcare. Eligible children get up to 15 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year. If you work, your three or four-year-old could get another 15 hours of childcare (making it 30 free hours).
Help buying essentials
If you’re at least ten weeks pregnant or have a child under four years old, did you know you could get help to buy milk, fruit and vegetables? The Healthy Start scheme provides vouchers that can be used towards the cost of healthy food and formula milk for your children.
You can find out more on the NHS Healthy Start web page.
Free school meals and activities
Did you know that if your child gets free school meals, the school gets extra money for your child’s education? Schools can use the money for school trips, extra teaching staff and activities.
Free school meals support is also available for the summer holiday. You should ask your child's school for details.
Find out more about free school meals.
Cheap and free summer activities
There are a variety of summer activities provided for children during the summer holidays in Manchester, from sports clubs, nature trails, arts and crafts, day trips and more.
A lot of these activities are either low-cost or completely free.
You can find out more about activities in your area by visiting the Loads To Do website.
Help if you’re struggling
You can apply for a cash grant of between £30 and £60 if you are in crisis or have an emergency that's out of your control.
You must be receiving one of the following benefits; Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Guaranteed Pension Credit.