Now that the summer holidays are in full swing, many families are looking forward to a well-earned break from the usual routine. But for some parents and carers, the holidays can also bring added pressure - especially for households already managing on a low income. When school is in session, children benefit from structured days, school meals, and a range of free activities. Without that daily support, the summer months can sometimes feel long and financially draining. The added costs of food, activities, and childcare can put a real strain on already tight budgets. At CHAP, we understand how challenging this time of year can be. That’s why we want to remind families that help is available and that nobody should feel they have to face these pressures alone. Free and Low-Cost Family Activities We know that keeping the kids amused during school holidays and weekends can be tough when you're on a budget - but there are plenty of free or low-cost places to visit across Ayrshire that the whole family can enjoy. Public Parks Explore places such as Eglinton Country Park, Kelburn Castle & Estate or Dean Castle Country Park - all have play areas, nature trails and loads of space for picnics and adventures. Castles & Museums Visit historically rich places including the North Ayrshire Heritage Centre, Kilwinning Abbey, Portencross Castle or The Dick Institute - all completely free and full of fascinating discoveries for curious minds. Beaches From Largs to Ayr, there are loads of family-friendly spots along the coast to build sandcastles, paddle, or just enjoy the fresh sea air. Hop over to Cumbrae A short, affordable ferry from Largs takes you to the wee island of Cumbrae - perfect for a mini-adventure! Take bikes, enjoy the beach, or walk along the promenade in Millport. You'll often find that your local library will have a programme of activities to keep children active and engaged - without breaking the bank. Help with Food During the Holidays For families who rely on free school meals during term time, the summer holidays can mean added food costs that are hard to cover. Low-income families may be entitled to a payment to support them over the school holiday period. In North Ayrshire, the Council are providing free lunches to eligible children and young people of primary and secondary school age. To find out more please click here . Local food larders and foodbanks play a vital role in supporting families who may be struggling - especially during the school holidays. Food larders usually operate on a membership or low-cost basis, allowing people to access fresh and store-cupboard items at a fraction of supermarket prices. Foodbanks, on the other hand, provide emergency food parcels to those in crisis, usually through a referral system. If you're unsure where your nearest food support is or how to access it, CHAP can help point you in the right direction. List of Food Larders in North Ayrshire List of Food Larders in East Ayrshire South Ayrshire Food Banks Benefit Checks and Budgeting Support The summer period is also a good time to make sure you're claiming everything you’re entitled to. Many families are missing out on support such as: Scottish Child Payment Best Start Grants and Foods Universal Credit Council Tax Reduction Discretionary Housing Payments CHAP’s advisers can help you understand what’s available, assist with applications, and offer budgeting advice to help your money go further - not just during the holidays, but all year round. You’re Not Alone The school holidays should be a time to make memories and enjoy time together - not a source of financial worry. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn, please remember that CHAP is here for you. Our advice is always free, confidential and independent. You can call us on Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the live chat feature on our website.

The final phase of the move from income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) to Universal Credit (UC) is now under way. All remaining claimants still receiving old-style ESA are being contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and invited to claim UC by September 2025. Here’s a summary of the key changes and what to watch out for: Migration Timeline The government has brought the deadline forward from December to September 2025 due to the pace of progress. As of March, 200,000 ESA claimants have already been moved across to UC. Around 83,000 migration notices are now being issued each month. Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Claimants If someone doesn’t claim UC by week 12 of receiving their migration notice, the DWP will start what’s called the ‘Enhanced Support Journey’. This includes: Text messages and phone calls to the claimant A possible referral to Citizens Advice or a complex case coach Home visits where needed An automatic four-week extension to the deadline if a home visit is arranged This process is in place to make sure vulnerable or hard-to-reach claimants don’t miss out on support. Special Situations Claimants in hospital, care homes, or supported accommodation can receive home visits to help them make a claim. If someone already has an appointee, that role must be transferred to UC. Appointees will receive the migration notice directly and can complete the UC claim on the claimant’s behalf. Transitional Protections To honour the commitment that no one should be worse off when moving to UC, the DWP offers transitional elements for eligible claimants. This means: If someone’s total legacy benefits are higher than their initial UC entitlement, a transitional amount is added This amount is gradually reduced over time as UC increases (except for the childcare element) Severe Disability Premium (SDP) Claimants who previously received the SDP may qualify for a separate transitional SDP element, depending on their circumstances. There are three fixed rates depending on the individual or household situation, with additional amounts available in some cases, such as for enhanced disability or disabled children. What If the Deadline Is Missed? If a claim is made within one month (minus one day) after the deadline, it may still count as a ‘qualifying claim’. In that case, the UC award should be backdated to the original deadline date. If transitional elements are missing, advisers should request a mandatory reconsideration and appeal if necessary. Claimants can also request deadline extensions or ask for the migration notice to be cancelled. This is at the discretion of the DWP and may be considered in cases of illness, hospitalisation, or other serious circumstances. Changes to Permitted Work Under ESA, permitted work could be done within strict income and hour limits without affecting entitlement. UC does not have an equivalent rule. Instead, earnings are subject to a work allowance and taper rate. The DWP has confirmed that claimants migrating to UC will not be penalised for permitted work carried out under ESA. Need Advice? CHAP’s advisers are here to help people navigate the migration process. We can: Explain deadlines and what they mean Support claimants with their UC application Help challenge decisions and secure transitional protection Offer ongoing advice as circumstances change If you're unsure how these changes affect you - or someone you know - please get in touch. Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the online chat feature here on our website.