Kids clubs face unprecedented demand as they fight holiday hunger
Holiday clubs are seeing rising demand this year as they look to make sure no child spends their holidays hungry - we've made a visit to one in East Lothian, they've had 40% more referrals than this time last year
Last updated 14th Jul 2022
An East Lothian kids club say they've had a 40% increase in demand, as they look to battle holiday hunger.
As the cost of living crisis continues to hit families, many have been left struggling to be able to put food on the table.
This pressure only increases throughout the summer holidays, with the added stress of keeping the kids entertained.
The Pennypit Community Development Trust run activities throughout the Summer for children - providing them with meals too.
Our Senior Reporter Lewis Michie has been to Preston Tower Primary School in Prestonpans to see the work they do.
Jonathan Sharples who runs the lunch club tells us:
"We started in 2016 and the numbers were around 12 families catered for, ever since then, numbers have kind of gone up and up.
"from summer 2021 to 2022. We've had a 40% increase in referrals from education, social work, and self referrals from families.
"So our numbers right now are at about 175 Kids, which, in families terms that's probably about 60-70 families."
Parents are trying to stretch their budgets to make every penny count at the moment.
For some this means choosing between basic necessities.
Jonathan gave us this example:
"There's one family that didn't have enough money to top up their gas and electric. And then for them to be able to top up the gas electric, then they're having to go without food.
"So you could take that burden of the food away from them, that at least gives them that money which can go towards the home, and then be able to provide a safe environment at home."
But as demands for the service continues to rise, costs for the food, the groups insurance and the petrol for day trips are also soaring.
You can find out more about the Pennypit Community Development Trust here.
What can I do if I'm struggling to make ends meet this Summer?
If you are needing assistance this Summer there are a number of places you can go for help.
Below are some of the resources available throughout various Council areas.
East Lothian:
The communities page on the East Lothian website signposts to a number of local food provisions, which you can find here.
You can also access information on financial hardship here.
Or you can phone the switchboard on 01620 827827 and ask for the financial inclusion team.
Edinburgh:
Those based in the City of Edinburgh Council area can find out information about free school meals, holiday payments, bridging payments and school clothing grants here.
Midlothian:
A page detailing help available can be found here.
Whilst there is also information on help available throughout the holidays for children who get free school meals here.
Falkirk:
Those in Falkirk can go here for information on local support services.
West Lothian:
Families can speak to an advisor who can check benefit entitlement, provide help with claims, assist with budgeting support etc. You can find this information here.