For anyone looking for activities for kids in our area this summer, here’s a summary of a number of events coming up over the next few weeks that can keep children entertained, and some advice for those needing extra support during the school holidays.

Activities in south Manchester

Over the summer holidays there are lots of play events for children – look out for a scheme in your area that can help keep kids entertained.

Childcare over the summer

Juggling childcare over the school holidays can be stressful, so make sure you’re maxing out your entitlement for free childcare. Children aged three and four (and some two-year-olds) get free early education and childcare. Eligible children get up to 15 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year. If you work, your three or four-year-old could get another 15 hours of childcare (making it 30 free hours). Find out more about free childcare.

Help with food and travel costs

If your child gets free school meals, get in touch with your school to see if there’s any free school meals support available during the summer holiday. Find out more about free school meals here. 

It might be helpful to know that if you’re at least ten weeks pregnant or have a child under four years old, the Healthy Start scheme provides vouchers that can be used towards the cost of healthy food and formula milk for your children. You can find out more on the NHS Healthy Start web page.

Help if you’re struggling  

You can apply for a cash grant of between £30 and £60 if you are in crisis or have an emergency that’s out of your control.   You must be receiving one of the following benefits; Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Guaranteed Pension Credit. Find out more about emergency support.  

Manchester City Council are still running their cost of living helpline which can offer support. The number for the advice line is 0800 023 2692. This free telephone line is open Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm

Citizen’s Advice put together a lot of this information –  they can more offer more support throughout this time as well. You can look at their services here.

his website also has a list of resources as well – find more information on our Help & Advice page.