'We feel the pressure juggling holiday logistics'
Parents say childcare costs, unpaid leave and SEND support gaps make summer holidays harder
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"The summer holiday juggle is becoming unmanageable for parents, and mums are consistently hit the hardest."
— Rachel Grocott , Executive
"I don't want to put myself in the situation where I'm working and doing childcare at the same time - I'd let my customers down and it's not safe for the children."
— Amy Nelson , Other
"It's impossible to do work and manage childcare at home, the only thing you can make them do is watch TV which is terrible."
— Alex Cummings , Other
"As a parent you want to give the kids the best summer ever, and you put a lot of pressure on yourself when you see big days out and you feel more pressure to spend more."
— Tzara Spurrier , Influencer
Key People
Self-employed sound designer who discusses summer childcare challenges.
Self-employed mother of three facing challenges during the summer holiday.
Single mother of two, facing challenges due to her son's disabilities.
Chief executive of the charity Pregnant Then Screwed.
Mum of two and Instagram account holder providing tips for budget-friendly activities.
All Coverage
Parents say childcare costs, unpaid leave and SEND support gaps make summer holidays harder
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Demand for school uniform bank 'has never been higher'
One mother said uniform costs had "really eaten" into her budget.
August 18, 2026 at 03:03 PM'I'd love a normal life, but being a 17-year-old carer means sacrifices'
Young carers face huge disadvantages growing up - one teenager explains what life is like.
August 20, 2026 at 12:49 AM'I used food banks while my ex owed thousands in child maintenance'
Parents have told BBC Panorama the agency tasked with helping to secure financial support for children after separation or divorce is driving them to breaking point.
August 17, 2026 at 12:27 PMParents 'watering down baby milk' over high costs
Moorside Baby Bank say parents are turning to unsafe practices over the rising cost of essentials.
August 16, 2026 at 06:03 AMBrexit rules put strain on zoo's conservation work
Staffs at Twycross Zoo say they need new laws to make it easier to transport animals globally.
August 13, 2026 at 05:08 AM'It was either feed my animals or feed myself'
Pet food banks says donations of food have dipped over the summer.
August 18, 2026 at 05:04 AM