For many families, the summer holidays are something to look forward to.

But if you’re raising a child with SEND, or you’re already struggling with the cost of living, the thought of paying for days out or a family holiday can feel impossible.

The good news is that there are grants, schemes and discounted holidays available that many parents simply don’t know about.

Here are five places worth checking before you spend your own money.

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1. Holiday Grants Through Charities

There are charities across the UK that help families who couldn’t otherwise afford a break away.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to receive help towards the cost of a holiday, short break or family trip.

One well-known organisation is the Family Holiday Charity, but there are also many smaller charities and local organisations that offer similar support.

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2. Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme

If your child is eligible for benefits-related free school meals, your local authority may offer free holiday clubs through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.

These often include:

• Free meals
• Sports
• Arts and crafts
• Outdoor activities
• SEND-friendly sessions in some areas

Availability varies between councils, so it’s worth searching:

“HAF programme + your council name.”

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3. Local Council Support

Many councils provide free or heavily subsidised activities during the summer holidays.

These can include:

• Swimming sessions
• Museums
• Family fun days
• Sports activities
• Nature walks
• SEND-specific events

Unfortunately, these schemes aren’t always well advertised, so it’s worth checking your council’s website or Facebook page.

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4. The Sun Holiday Deals

Every year, The Sun runs one of the UK’s most popular low-cost holiday promotions.

By collecting promotional codes, families can often book UK holiday park breaks for a fraction of the usual price.

While they’re not free, they can be one of the cheapest ways to enjoy a family break during the school holidays.

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5. Search for Local Holiday Grants

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is assuming there isn’t any help available locally.

Many areas have:

• Community foundations
• Local charities
• Family support organisations
• Rotary Clubs
• Lions Clubs
• Church groups
• Children’s charities

that quietly provide grants or funding for holidays, day trips and family activities.

Try searching:

• Holiday grants + your town
• Family holiday support + your county
• Children’s holiday fund + your area
• Family support grants + your local authority

You might be surprised by what’s available.

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Don’t Forget Your Child’s SEND Support

If your child has an EHCP, receives support from social care, or has a disability, it’s also worth asking:

• Your school’s SENDCo
• Your family support worker
• Your local SENDIASS service
• Your local parent carer forum

They often know about local schemes that aren’t widely advertised.

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A Final Thought

Summer shouldn’t be a time when families feel guilty because they can’t afford expensive days out.

There is support available—but much of it relies on parents knowing where to look.

If you’ve discovered a brilliant holiday grant, charity or local scheme that helped your family, share it with other parents. One recommendation could make a real difference to someone who thought a holiday simply wasn’t possible this year.

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Need More SEND Support?

If you’re looking for practical guidance on EHCPs, DLA, PIP, school issues, autism, ADHD or navigating the SEND system, visit AskEllie for clear, easy-to-understand advice designed specifically for families.

You’re not alone—and together we can help more parents find the support they’re entitled to.