A boy playing in a sprinkler outside.

Summer belongs to us all

We’re helping families facing poverty across the UK this summer.

Every child deserves a summer to remember.

For too many, the holidays mean going without. This is Liam’s story – and how together we can change it.

Real people. Real impact

A mum hugging her two children outside while sitting on the grass.

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.

A Barnardo's project worker talking with a mum at a summer event.

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.

Want more stories like Lisa’s? Join our newsletter.

Stay connected to our work

At Barnardo's, we're building a movement to change childhoods and change lives.

Sign up to our newsletter to stay updated on our latest news, events, campaigns, and opportunities to support us, with an email directly to your inbox.
Join the Barnardo's community
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How we're supporting families across the UK

When schools close, families often face increased food costs, childcare expenses, and added pressure to keep children entertained throughout the long break. For many of the children and families we support, summer can become one of the most challenging times of the year.  

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.  
Read our blog to find out about our support for families over summer
A mum and son having a picnic as part of a Barnardo's summer event.

The difference we’re making together, in numbers

A boy smiling in his room

350,000+

We reached over 350,000 children, young people, parents, and carers through our services and partnerships

A teen boy speaking to a Barnardo's project worker on a park bench.

650+

We make sure children and young people feel safer, happier, healthier, and more hopeful by running more than 650 specialist services across the UK.

Three volunteers sewing in a Barnardo's Re-Fashion Hub.

18,520

We were supported by 18,520 volunteers who gave 1.9m hours of their time to help more families.

A group of children running in a park and smiling.

We've got advice to help you this summer

A group of siblings in a playground swing being pushed by their dad.

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.

Two tweens looking at a phone outside and laughing.

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. 

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