More than two-fifths of mums miss meals so their kids can eat more over the summer, Fabulous poll reveals
THE school holidays are supposed to be a fun, carefree time for families to make long-lasting memories together.
But for many hard-up parents the six-week break sees them going without food, getting into debt and seeing their careers suffer in order to provide essentials for their young children.
An exclusive poll, commissioned by The Sun’s Fabulous brand as part of our Baby, Bank On Us campaign, found that more than two fifths (43 per cent) of mums have missed meals so their kids can eat more over the summer.
And, shockingly, nearly a quarter (23 per cent) have had to stop buying basic hygiene products, including shampoo, shower gel and toothpaste, so their children don’t go without.
Our poll of 2,000 British mothers reveals they are resorting to desperate measures to make ends meet.
Thirteen per cent of mums polled have used a baby bank over the summer break, while a quarter (26 per cent) have turned to their local food bank.
Half (51 per cent) have taken advantage of ‘Kids Eat Free’ schemes in cafes and restaurants.
Ten per cent of mums surveyed are left with £51 to £100 of disposable income at the end of the month, while, worryingly, five per cent admitted they have no spare cash at all.
Enjoying a beach break, staycation or even a camping trip is something many families are unable to do this year.
Nearly half (47 per cent) can’t afford to take their children on holiday, while a third (29 per cent) have got into problem debt (debt that they have struggled to pay off) in order to take their kids away.
A staggering 67 per cent of mums feel pressure to match what other families are doing on social media, by forking out for expensive day trips, toys and activities.
Meanwhile, the cost and stress of childcare over the summer is also an anxiety trigger for many cash-strapped mums.
Nearly half (45 per cent) can’t afford to put their children into holiday clubs, and 40 per cent have had to seek financial support from friends and family in order to look after their little ones.
The lack of childcare support is having a knock on effect on their careers with a sixth (16 per cent) of mothers surveyed saying their work has suffered “a lot” as a result of having to look after their children during the summer.
Sadly, nearly half of mums say the cost of the six-week holidays has put a strain on their relationship with their kids.
Becca Lyon, Head of Poverty at Save The Children UK, a supporter of our campaign, says the findings are unacceptable.
“The summer holidays should be a wonderful time for children, filled with fun.
“But these responses confirm what we are hearing from families we support – the cost of living crisis is robbing them of those joys.
“It is unacceptable that parents are having to skip meals so their children can eat.
“And for many, a day at the seaside is no longer affordable, let alone a holiday.
“Doing without these things can have a real impact on children, making their world smaller, and leaving kids feeling different from their friends.”
The concern comes as Fabulous continues its Baby, Bank On Us campaign.
Launched in May, in partnership with Save The Children, Little Village and more than 200 baby banks nationwide, our appeal is asking readers to give money, supplies, or their time to their local baby bank.
Becca added: “What families need most is additional financial support from the UK government.
“In the meantime, baby banks can play a vital role for expectant and new parents, ensuring young children do not go without essentials.
“They will be lifelines for families with young children this summer.”
Thanks to kind readers and powerhouse British businesses, our initiative has raised more than £70,000, which goes directly to helping families with young children struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.
The Princess of Wales says she is “proud” to support the initiative, alongside TV presenters Christine Lampard and Charlotte Hawkins, singers Leona Lewis, Peter Andre and Aston Merrygold, actresses Jorgie Porter and Louisa Lytton, and reality stars including Jessica Wright, Laura Anderson and Olivia Bowen.