Summer should be when memories are made. But let’s be real—it doesn’t look the same for everyone.
To children, summer is their playground. And to parents, it’s a juggle. But for families living in poverty, it’s survival. Without the safety net of school, parents face impossible choices every day. For children living in poverty, it’s a summer of hunger, loneliness, and missing out.
It does not have to be that way.
That’s why this summer we’re helping families living in poverty in little ways like stocking the fridge, and in big, exciting ways like days out to the beach and trips to the zoo.
The support we provide means that families living in poverty can escape the daily grind and have the experiences where magical childhood memories are made. We do this every single day, and we’ll do it for as long as we’re needed.
With your support, we can help turn long, difficult summers into joyful ones – filled with laughter, play, and the kind of memories every child deserves.
Help change lives this summer, join us today
“The support from Barnardo’s saved us for those few weeks… It really saved us.”
Ellie's story
How volunteering with children and young people makes a difference
If you’re interested in volunteering with children and young people, we have lots of different ways you can get involved - from roles that involve direct support the children themselves, to important positions where you support families or help behind the scenes. Every role makes a difference.
How to find your next adventure in nature
We spoke with Abbie Barnes – a presenter, filmmaker, and mountain leader whose mission is to empower others to improve their mental and physical health by connecting to nature through adventures in the natural world.
Shop our summer essentials collection
Make the most of summer with our seasonal must haves. perfect for holidays, garden fun, and days out.
*Names have been changed to protect the identities of the family.