THE summer holidays are here, which means school is out and six weeks of freedom have begun for millions of kids.
However, for many struggling families this can also be a time of huge anxiety.
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Many households are reliant on their child’s free school meals to ensure they get their three meals a day.
The summer holidays can be a financial headache for many parents, who need to find extra cash to feed and entertain the kids.
But there is some help available to struggling families, so it’s worth finding out what you’re eligible for in your area.
Some local councils offer supermarket vouchers that will be the equivalent of the meals your child receives at school.
Parents can usually claim £90 per child each week, however, this amount varies depending on your local area.
For example, in Kent you’ll only be able to claim one £50 voucher to help you through the six weeks.
Now supermarket Iceland is taking part in the scheme and offering parents a one-off voucher.
Iceland stores will give families in England £15 per child during the summer holidays.
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Additionally, you’ll receive a £1 bonus card for each £15 spent.
The money can also be spent at Iceland’s sister supermarket The Food Warehouse.
Families who currently receive free school meal vouchers are eligible for the money, which can be used across stores nationwide.
They’ll be given out to eligible families through schools or local councils.
Once you receive the voucher, you can convert it into an Iceland e-gift card through the supplier portal.
The gift card can be used from now until Friday, September 2.
What other help can I get over the summer holidays
The government’s new Help for Households campaign is aiming to help millions of struggling Brits during the cost of living crisis.
The website will feature discounts and highlight initiatives that could help households save money.
It has information about how to claim tax-free childcare, for example – you could get up to £500 every three months for each child to help with childcare costs.
You could also receive 30 or 15 hours of free childcare a week.
Families can also claim child benefit and claim back childcare costs.
Information on these schemes can be found on the gov.uk website under Help with childcare costs.
Meanwhile, millions of people are starting to receive the cost of living payments, with many on benefits getting an extra £650 free cash.
You may receive more money if you’re a pensioner or have a disability.
Thousands of households may also be entitled £100 off their council tax under new plans.
Thousands of savers are owed 3,363 each as HMRC overcharges on pension tax.
Firms are giving their workers pay rises and cost of living bonuses to help with their bills.
