Every child deserves a summer to remember.
More than 1 in 4 children in the UK are growing up in poverty, and for many families, the summer holidays can be one of the hardest times of the year. From the loss of free school meals to rising childcare costs and fewer opportunities for children to stay active and connected, the pressure can quickly add up.
At Barnardo's, we're there for children, young people and families when they need us most all year round. As the UK's largest children's charity, we work in communities across the UK, providing practical and often critical support, trusted relationships and safe spaces where children can have fun, build confidence and simply be children.
With your support, we can help more children enjoy childhood, make happy memories, feel connected and know they belong.
This is Liam’s story – and how together we can change it.
You can support families like Liam's facing poverty.
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Real people. Real impact.
Meet Lisa
“I can’t remember the last time I felt so happy.” Last year, support from Barnardo's helped Lisa’s family go camping for the first time ever - making memories to last a lifetime.
Meet Sophia
Our support workers, like Sophia, help families across the UK ease the pressure during the summer holidays with trusted advice, safe spaces, and often critical support.
How we're supporting families across the UK
Find out more about what we're doing to help families across the UK facing financial hardship with tangible support when it is most needed.
We've got advice to help you this summer
How to make and keep a healthy routine with your kids this summer
School holidays can feel like a welcome break for your children but letting go of their usual routine can also leave them feeling unsettled, leading sometimes to changes in their emotions and behaviour. We spoke with Claire Heap, Team Manager for our North-West Cumbria Mental Health Support Team, who explains why a healthy routine is important for kids during the summer and how parents can help their children stick to one.
I’m looking for support with being a parent or carer
Family life can be full of moments that make you smile, as well as times that test your patience or leave you searching for answers. That’s why we’ve created our Family Space, a place for parents and carers like you to get advice and guidance from our specialists.
Why is limiting screen time for children and young people a good idea?
Technology is an important part of life; it helps children learn, connect, explore their interests, and relax. But being conscious of how much screen time your children have can help you make sure that they’re having a healthy balance of experiences.
Claire Heap explains why limiting screen time for children and young people is important.