Support in the school holidays
School holidays can bring extra costs for families, from food shopping and childcare to keeping children active and entertained.
This page brings together information about financial support, food support, holiday activities and other help available during school holidays.
It also includes information about changes to school holiday vouchers and answers to frequently asked questions.
Financial support
If you are struggling to pay for everyday essentials, support may be available through the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF)
Ealing Council introduced the CRF in 2026 to help residents experiencing financial hardship. Support may be available with essential living costs such as food and household bills. The fund can also provide access to advice and support to help residents manage their finances and improve their longer-term financial resilience.
Food support
If you are finding it difficult to afford food or other everyday essentials, there are organisations across the borough that may be able to help.
You may be able to get help from food banks, community food projects and other organisations providing free and affordable food.
Activities for children and young people
If your child receives free school meals, they may be able to take part in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme during the winter, spring and summer school holidays.
The programme offers free activities and healthy meals for eligible children and young people.
You can also explore the council's guide to free and low-cost activities during the school holidays, including activities and offers available for local families.
Changes to school holiday vouchers
School holiday vouchers have ended following changes to government funding.
The July 2026 voucher was the last voucher issued to eligible households. No vouchers will be issued for October half term or future school holidays.
School holiday vouchers were separate from free school meals. If your child is eligible for free school meals, they will continue to receive them during term time, but school holiday vouchers are no longer available.
The council's Crisis and Resilience Fund is not a replacement for school holiday vouchers. Support from the fund is assessed based on individual circumstances and may be provided in different ways depending on a resident's needs.
If you are struggling financially, you may be able to get help through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. Support is also available through food support organisations, benefits advice services and other cost of living support
If you live in a neighbouring borough, but attend a school in the borough, please use the contact details below for your local council to find out what support may be available to you:
