Summer holidays can be a strange time.

They’re meant to be a break — a chance to breathe, spend time with the kids, maybe even enjoy a bit of sunshine. But if I’m honest, they often feel more like a pressure cooker. The cost of keeping children entertained, fed, and kitted out for the next school year quickly adds up, especially when you’re already juggling tight budgets, health challenges, or simply trying to get through each day.

You’re not failing if you’re finding it hard.

For many families, the holidays highlight the cracks. Not enough money. Not enough energy. Not enough support. The pressure to be ‘making memories’ is everywhere — but the reality might look like saying no to ice creams because there’s only just enough in the meter, or dodging school shoe shopping for as long as possible because you know they’ve had a growth spurt and you can’t magic £50 from nowhere.

We see you. And we’re here to help.

Some schools and PTAs run second-hand uniform shops or swap days — worth checking local Facebook groups or asking at reception. Our Mark Hewitson Foundation offers Lifestyle gift cards which can be used for both groceries and school clothes in many high street shops. And we can point you towards other local support in Coventry, like Baby Godiva, food hubs, or the Household Support Fund.

👉 If you’re really struggling, it’s OK to ask. You don’t need to wait until you hit rock bottom.

Sometimes it’s the smallest help — a school jumper, a supermarket voucher — that makes the biggest difference. And no child should feel less than because of money.

So if this summer feels more survival than sunshine, you are not alone.

We believe in your strength, and we’re right here if you need us x