Mums and dads offered free shopping this summer

Almost a quarter of parents are planning to skip meals during the summer holidays to ensure their children are fed, as they anticipate spending an extra £300 on food. According to research by Iceland, some 24% of parents will go without food to make sure their children have meals during the six-week break.

An overwhelming 93% of parents are bracing themselves to spend more than £300 solely on food, with half already saving up for the expected increase. The survey, which involved 2,000 parents, also found more than half are anxious about managing financially through the holidays, with 43% fearing it could be the most expensive summer they've ever had.

More than a quarter of parents are apprehensive about the summer break, with two-fifths feeling the pressure to spend money, and some 38% feeling guilty about not being able to provide their children with the summer holiday they desire. To assist the most vulnerable families this summer, Iceland and The Food Warehouse are launching a scheme.

In addition to honouring free school meal vouchers, Iceland is also offering customers a £5 top-up, the largest-ever school meal top-up, and more than double what it provided in 2023. Alongside the top-up, Iceland has also put together a range of deals specifically designed to aid families.

Richard Walker, Executive Chairman of Iceland Foods, said: "We know the summer holidays can be an incredibly difficult time for families, but hearing that some are going without meals to keep food on the table for their children is truly heartbreaking. No parent should have to make that kind of sacrifice and at Iceland and The Food Warehouse we're committed to standing by families during such a challenging time."

"We hope these extra top-ups bring some relief to those who need it most this summer." Families keen to benefit from the top-up, which is available to nearly 2.2 million households, must have a registered Iceland and The Food Warehouse Bonus Card.

Signing up for the card is free of charge. For more details click here