Single Parent FAQs: Help with school holiday costs – Issue 50

If your child normally receives free school meals, your local council may provide support during the holidays.

This can include:

• Direct payments or vouchers
• Access to free meals through local programmes
• Food parcels in some areas

Support varies depending on where you live, so it’s best to check directly with your local council.

Many councils and community organisations run free or low-cost holiday programmes. These often include:

• Sports and outdoor activities
• Arts and crafts
• Day trips or group sessions

These are sometimes referred to as holiday clubs or part of a wider holiday programme.

You can check what’s available through your council or local family support organisations.

Formal childcare can be expensive, but you may be able to get help with costs.

If you are working and receive Universal Credit, you could claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs. You usually need to pay upfront and then claim the money back.

You can also:

• Check if local holiday clubs offer childcare places
• Ask your council about funded or subsidised options

If you’re struggling with essential costs like food or energy, you may be able to apply for a Crisis Grant through the Scottish Welfare Fund.

This is managed by your local council and can help in emergency situations.

If you’re unsure what support is available or need help applying, you can contact One Parent Families Scotland and an adviser can:

• Talk through your options
• Help you understand what you’re entitled to
• Support you with benefit or budgeting questions