School’s Out - Stretching Your Summer Budget
John Edgar • 7 July 2025
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
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.
We’re constantly exposed to messages telling us to keep up - with fashion, tech gadgets, trends, and lifestyles that look perfect on social media. It’s no wonder so many people, especially parents, feel the pressure to spend beyond their means just so their kids don’t feel left out at school. It’s so easy to fall into the trap. Store cards with 'buy now, pay later' deals, flashy introductory offers, and limited-time discounts are designed to create a sense of urgency - like if you don’t act now, you’re missing out. But what’s really being missed is usually the small print… high APR rates often leading to debt stress, and long-term financial strain. This cycle of consumerism isn’t by accident - it’s carefully crafted to keep us buying, borrowing and feeling like we’re never quite enough unless we have the next best thing. But here’s the truth: it’s OK to opt out . You don’t have to compete. You don’t need to upgrade. If something still fits, still works and still does the job - just keep using it. You'll be helping yourself and the planet. Living within your means isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s brave. It’s wise. It's not a downgrade; it’s freedom - and it’s more comfortable in the long run. Choose peace over pressure. Your wellbeing matters more than what’s currently 'on trend'. We can help If you're facing debt worries and don't know where to turn, get in touch with CHAP. Our services are free and we can help you take the first steps towards a more stable financial future. Make an appointment by calling Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the chat feature here on our website.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, CHAP staff, board members and supporters laced up their walking shoes on Friday 16th May and set off from CentreStage in Kilmarnock on an 18-mile journey to our main office in Ardrossan. The Killie 2 Coast walk was our first long-distance fundraising event, and we’re delighted to say that it was a brilliant success! We couldn't have hoped for better weather - but, with temperatures soaring and the sun shining all day, the walk was as much a test of stamina as it was a show of solidarity. The effort paid off though - not just in steps, but in generosity. We’ve raised an incredible £2,265 so far , with donations still coming in. The event brought together colleagues, supporters, and community members with a shared focus: raising awareness of mental wellbeing and the importance of reaching out for help when facing tough challenges. The Killie 2 Coast walk was more than just a fundraiser - it was a celebration of community, resilience, and the collective commitment to supporting better mental health. All donations will go toward helping CHAP continue delivering free advice and support to individuals and families across Ayrshire. A Huge Thank You We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in the walk, supported our team, or helped behind the scenes. Your encouragement and kindness truly kept spirits high - especially during the tougher stretches of the route! We’d also like to extend a special thanks to these fantastic local businesses who sponsored or donated to support the event: Active Office Group Ardeer Community Centre, Stevenston ASDA, Ardrossan Barry Devlin Services Ltd, Knockentiber Brownings the Bakers Card Factory, Saltcoats CS Recovery Ltd Dreghorn Library Kilwinning Community Sports Club Tesco Extra, Kilmarnock The Working Wardrobe Your generosity helped provide essential refreshments, supplies and encouragement along the way. If you’d still like to contribute, donations will remain open until the end of May - JUSTGIVING Thank you again to everyone who made the day so special!
Following the recent announcement of our upcoming Killie 2 Coast fundraising walk on Friday 16th May, we’re excited to share more details about the big day! This scenic, 18-mile long-distance trek starts from our outreach hub at CentreStage in Kilmarnock and finishes at our main office on Princes Street in Ardrossan. Below, you’ll find the planned route, key checkpoints with coordinates, and approximate distances and timings to help you prepare. If you're planning to join us, please remember to wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear, as we’ll be covering a fair distance over varied terrain. Hopefully, the sun will be shining on the 16th - if it does, please remember to wear sun cream, and a hat for protection throughout the day. Whether you're keen to take on the full challenge or join us for a particular section of the walk, there’s still time to register and get involved. We’d love for you to be part of this meaningful journey as we raise vital funds to support people across Ayrshire with housing, money advice, and welfare rights. Sign up to participate (before 14th May) here . If you're able to make a donation for our charity, please do so here . Many thanks to everyone who has signed up and/or donated so far - your support is very much appreciated! Killie 2 Coast Route The full K2C walking route is available to view here . Please remember to zoom in to see the route in more detail. Checkpoints There will be 4 checkpoints along the route where people are welcome to join us for a few miles. Registered participants joining us at each checkpoint are required to report to a marshal or member of staff (wearing a blue high-vis vest) on arrival. All participants will then be issued with an orange high-vis vest and a bottle of water. Basic first aid will be available at each checkpoint if required. For location accuracy, we are using 'What 3 Words' . You can find out more here . ------------------------------------------------------- Section 1 - Kilmarnock to Knockentiber Google Maps Distance: 2.5 miles Time: 1hr (approx.) Starting Point CentreStage Entrance, Kilmarnock Google Map Coordinates - 55.608332, -4.493318 What 3 Words - ///billiard.race.suits Checkpoint 1 Kilmaurs Road (Barry Devlin Services car park) Google Map Coordinates - 55.625118, -4.542270 What 3 Words - ///goals.stack.scenes To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube . ------------------------------------------------------- Section 2 - Knockentiber to Dreghorn Google Maps Distance: 4 miles Time: 1hr 15mins (approx.) Joining Point Kilmaurs Road (Barry Devlin Services car park) Google Map Coordinates - 55.625118, -4.542270 What 3 Words - ///goals.stack.scenes Checkpoint 2 Dreghorn, Station Brae (car park next to the Annick Water bridge) Google Map Coordinates - 55.611158, -4.620263 What 3 Words - ///meatballs.punctured.desktop To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube . ------------------------------------------------------- Section 3 - Dreghorn to Irvine Google Maps Distance: 3.5 miles Time: 1hr (approx.) Joining Point Dreghorn, Station Brae (car park next to the Annick Water bridge) Google Map Coordinates - 55.611158, -4.620263 What 3 Words - ///meatballs.punctured.desktop Checkpoint 3 Irvine, Low Green (West Road Centre car park) Google Map Coordinates - 55.617022, -4.672991 What 3 Words - ///marble.ties.famous To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube . ------------------------------------------------------- Section 4 - Irvine to Stevenston Google Maps Distance: 5.5 miles Time: 2hrs (approx.) Joining Point Irvine, Low Green (West Road Centre car park) Google Map Coordinates - 55.617022, -4.672991 What 3 Words - ///marble.ties.famous Checkpoint 4 Ardeer Quarry Nature Reserve, Stevenston (car park at the end of Moorpark Road East) Google Map Coordinates - 55.636594, -4.749428 What 3 Words - ///corrects.lease.enlighten To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube . ------------------------------------------------------- Section 5 - Stevenston to Ardrossan Google Maps Distance: 3.5 miles Time: 1hr 15mins (approx.) Joining Point Ardeer Quarry Nature Reserve, Stevenston (car park at the end of Moorpark Road East) Google Map Coordinates - 55.636594, -4.749428 What 3 Words - ///corrects.lease.enlighten Finish Point CHAP Office, The Michael Lynch Centre for Enterprise, Princes Street, Ardrossan KA22 8DG Google Map Coordinates - 55.63970646085093, -4.813280512644558 What 3 Words - ///crowds.pump.tides To watch a video slideshow of this section please view on YouTube . ------------------------------------------------------- To keep up to date with the latest Killie 2 Coast news and plans, please follow us on Facebook .
Carer Support Payment has replaced Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, offering improved support to unpaid carers who play such a vital - and often invisible - role in our society. At CHAP, we know just how much unpaid carers contribute, often putting their own needs on hold to support a family member, friend or neighbour. This new payment is designed to better reflect their circumstances and make it easier to get the support they deserve. What is Carer Support Payment? Carer Support Payment is a benefit issued by Social Security Scotland, offering financial support to people who provide 35 or more hours of unpaid care a week to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit - such as Adult Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance. What’s Different? Unlike Carer’s Allowance, the new system is designed to be: More flexible - carers in full-time education can now apply, removing a barrier faced by many young and adult learners. Less restrictive - there’s more support for carers navigating changes in work, health, or family life. Better aligned with other Scottish benefits - helping to reduce overlap and confusion. How Much Is It? You could receive £83.30 per week (as of April 2025), paid every four weeks. This amount is not taxed, and it doesn’t count towards the benefit cap. In addition, Carer’s Allowance Supplement is an extra payment for eligible unpaid carers who are getting Carer Support Payment. This payment is made twice a year and is unique to Scotland. Each payment of Carer’s Allowance Supplement in 2025 will be £293.50. It is paid automatically without the need to apply. Who Can Claim It? Many people provide regular care but don’t realise they could be entitled to financial support. To be eligible to apply, you must: Be aged 16 or over Usually live in Scotland Provide care for 35 hours or more a week (this includes if you provide care all day every day) Not earn more than £196 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses (this threshold has been increased from £151 per week) What If You Were Already Getting Carer’s Allowance? If you were receiving Carer’s Allowance and you live in Scotland, you should have been automatically transferred to Carer Support Payment - you don’t need to apply again. But if you’re unsure or something doesn’t look right, CHAP can help you check and get it sorted. How CHAP Can Help Our friendly, professional advisers can: Check if you're eligible Help you apply Go through a benefits check to make sure you're claiming what you're entitled to All our services are free, independent and confidential. Get in touch: Freephone 030 0002 0002 For further information: https://www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment
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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.
We’re constantly exposed to messages telling us to keep up - with fashion, tech gadgets, trends, and lifestyles that look perfect on social media. It’s no wonder so many people, especially parents, feel the pressure to spend beyond their means just so their kids don’t feel left out at school. It’s so easy to fall into the trap. Store cards with 'buy now, pay later' deals, flashy introductory offers, and limited-time discounts are designed to create a sense of urgency - like if you don’t act now, you’re missing out. But what’s really being missed is usually the small print… high APR rates often leading to debt stress, and long-term financial strain. This cycle of consumerism isn’t by accident - it’s carefully crafted to keep us buying, borrowing and feeling like we’re never quite enough unless we have the next best thing. But here’s the truth: it’s OK to opt out . You don’t have to compete. You don’t need to upgrade. If something still fits, still works and still does the job - just keep using it. You'll be helping yourself and the planet. Living within your means isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s brave. It’s wise. It's not a downgrade; it’s freedom - and it’s more comfortable in the long run. Choose peace over pressure. Your wellbeing matters more than what’s currently 'on trend'. We can help If you're facing debt worries and don't know where to turn, get in touch with CHAP. Our services are free and we can help you take the first steps towards a more stable financial future. Make an appointment by calling Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the chat feature here on our website.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, CHAP staff, board members and supporters laced up their walking shoes on Friday 16th May and set off from CentreStage in Kilmarnock on an 18-mile journey to our main office in Ardrossan. The Killie 2 Coast walk was our first long-distance fundraising event, and we’re delighted to say that it was a brilliant success! We couldn't have hoped for better weather - but, with temperatures soaring and the sun shining all day, the walk was as much a test of stamina as it was a show of solidarity. The effort paid off though - not just in steps, but in generosity. We’ve raised an incredible £2,265 so far , with donations still coming in. The event brought together colleagues, supporters, and community members with a shared focus: raising awareness of mental wellbeing and the importance of reaching out for help when facing tough challenges. The Killie 2 Coast walk was more than just a fundraiser - it was a celebration of community, resilience, and the collective commitment to supporting better mental health. All donations will go toward helping CHAP continue delivering free advice and support to individuals and families across Ayrshire. A Huge Thank You We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in the walk, supported our team, or helped behind the scenes. Your encouragement and kindness truly kept spirits high - especially during the tougher stretches of the route! We’d also like to extend a special thanks to these fantastic local businesses who sponsored or donated to support the event: Active Office Group Ardeer Community Centre, Stevenston ASDA, Ardrossan Barry Devlin Services Ltd, Knockentiber Brownings the Bakers Card Factory, Saltcoats CS Recovery Ltd Dreghorn Library Kilwinning Community Sports Club Tesco Extra, Kilmarnock The Working Wardrobe Your generosity helped provide essential refreshments, supplies and encouragement along the way. If you’d still like to contribute, donations will remain open until the end of May - JUSTGIVING Thank you again to everyone who made the day so special!