British Parents feel the Summer Holiday Pinch

by Shabana Adam | 4 September 2012

Brighton

As kids across the UK reluctantly head back to school this week, a survey conducted by restaurant chain Table Table and parenting website Netmums, has revealed that parents in Brighton have had to tighten the purse strings more than most, with 71 per cent of those polled saying that they have purposely avoided days out in the local area due to it being too expensive.

Across the UK, almost a quarter of parents admit to spending an additional £10 or more a day per child, on top of their regular outgoings, with 55 per cent claiming that they have felt the economic pinch more than ever this year.

With a little forward planning prior to the next school holiday in October you will find that there is plenty to do as a family in the UK that won’t mean you having to break the bank!

However, in order to avoid overspending almost two thirds of the Netmums members surveyed by Table Table state that they save money by collecting and using money off vouchers or tokens on days out with their family.

In order to save money during the school break and inspired by the summer of sport, 70 per cent of families have opted to enjoy more activities such cycling and walks in the countryside. Parents say they tend to avoid activities such as visits to the cinema, theme parks or bowling alleys most often as they are too expensive.

Furthermore, 42 per cent of parents also claimed that their children regularly choose to just entertain themselves in front of the television or video games whilst off school.

Siobhan Freegard, founder of Netmums and mum-of-three, said: “It’s not surprising that in the current economic climate parents feel as though they have to tighten their belts, especially when it comes to keeping the kids entertained over the summer holidays.

"Luckily there are plenty of ways to keep your children occupied that don’t have to cost the earth. With a little forward planning prior to the next school holiday in October you will find that there is plenty to do as a family in the UK that won’t mean you having to break the bank!”

Helen Lavery, a spokeswoman for Table Table, added; “Spending quality time together, especially during school holidays, is really important for a lot of families. A trip out to your local restaurant for lunch or dinner can feel like an extravagant treat, but with deals like the ones available at Table Table, where kids can enjoy a main meal for just £1, it’s the perfect chance to be together as a family."

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