Holiday club costs are sky high – how you can get free or subsidised childcare

The school holidays are here and if you're a working parent, you're probably already feeling the pressure.

How do you juggle your job with six full weeks of childcare, without emptying your bank account?

While holiday clubs can be a real lifesaver, they’re now more expensive than ever. But there are practical ways to cut the cost, and even options to access clubs for free.

The rising cost of holiday clubs

New research by children’s charity Coram shows that full-time summer clubs now cost an average of £1,076 per child over the holidays.

That’s a lot of money, especially if you’ve got more than one child or limited time off work.

Regional prices are rising fast

• In Wales, the average weekly cost of holiday club childcare is £210, the highest in the UK.
• Yorkshire and the Humber saw the biggest year-on-year rise, up 13% to £194.41 per week.

And with fewer affordable, council-run clubs available, families are left scrambling for options.

Universal credit childcare funding

If you’re on universal credit, you may be able to claim back childcare costs. Working families with this benefit can claim up to £1,031.88 a month for one child or £1,768.94 for two or more.

But you have to pay upfront, then wait for reimbursement, which can take four weeks or more, so you’ll need to budget for upfront costs.

The HAF programme

If you're feeling the financial pinch, look into your local holiday activities and food (HAF) programme. It provides free childcare places to children from low-income families.

Funded by the government and run by local councils, it gives eligible families access to:

• free childcare
• healthy meals
• fun, enriching activities

Who is it for?

The programme is primarily for children who:

• get benefits-related free school meals
• are in reception to year 11
• live or go to school in the area where it’s offered

Councils can use up to 15% of their budget for kids who don’t meet the usual criteria but could still benefit.

How you can apply

• Visit your local council’s website and search for HAF programme.
• Check your eligibility and, if you qualify, you’ll receive a voucher or code via text, email, or letter.
• Use the code to reserve a space online or contact the club directly.

Spots fill up fast, so act early.

How to keep childcare costs low during the summer holidays

Aside from HAF, there are other ways to make childcare more manageable and affordable during the summer holidays.

Request flexible working

All employees have the legal right to ask for flexible working. Whether it’s compressed hours, part-time days or hybrid work, adjusting your schedule could help you cover some of the holiday period yourself and reduce how many club days you need to pay for.

Combine holiday and unpaid leave

Using up your annual leave might not cover the whole summer, but combining it with a few days of unpaid leave can bridge the gap.

Yes, you'll miss some pay, but it might still be cheaper than full-time childcare.

Hire a student babysitter

If full-time childcare isn't in your budget, consider hiring a local college student for a few hours a day. They're often more affordable than professional sitters and can entertain your kids at home while you work - perfect if you work remotely.

Share the load with other parents

If you know other working parents who are in the same boat, set up a childcare rota where you each take turns watching the kids. It will save money and give your children a chance to hang out with friends.

Tap into local community groups

Many churches, community centres, libraries and sports clubs run low-cost or donation-based holiday sessions.

Use a tax-free childcare account

Set up a tax-free childcare account and the government will top up your contributions.

• for every £8 you pay in, the government adds £2
• you can get up to £2,000 per year per child

These can be used to pay for many Ofsted-registered holiday clubs, making them a great way to bring down the cost.

There are plenty of creative ways to keep summer fun without spending a fortune. From cosy movie nights at home to free adventures in the great outdoors, check out our blog for budget-friendly ways to make the most of the school holidays.