Here’s a helpful roundup of free support services available to students and parents/carers during the summer holidays when schools are closed but needs still arise:

Food & Essentials

• Holiday Food and Fun Programme Free holiday clubs offering meals and activities for children aged 4–16 who receive benefit-related free school meals. Includes inclusive sessions for children with SEND. Locations across Woolwich, Plumstead, Eltham, Thamesmead and more.
• Free Holiday Meals available at libraries and leisure centres across Greenwich - no booking required. Check days and locations via the council’s website.
• Trussell Trust Food Banks Emergency food parcels and support across the UK. Find your nearest location using the Trussell Trust food bank finder.
• Family Action FOOD Clubs Affordable weekly food boxes and holiday support for families.

Mental Health & Emotional Support

• Childline (Ages 18 and under) Free, confidential support via phone (0800 1111), chat, or email. Explore resources at Childline’s summer support page.
• Shout Text Service (Ages 10+) Text CONNECT to 85258 for free 24/7 mental health support. More info at Give Us A Shout.
• ThinkNinja App (Ages 10–18) Free mental health app with tools for managing anxiety, stress, and low mood. Available on app stores.
• Kooth If you or someone you know needs extra mental wellbeing support during the holidays, Kooth are here. Visit go.kooth.com/idp for any Children or Young Person to be able to refer themselves or with your help.

Family & Parenting Support

• Young Greenwich Parenting Support (METRO Charity) Free advice and support for parents of children aged 10–19 (or up to 25 with SEND). Available to all families living in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
• Families Information Service (Royal Greenwich) Help with childcare, SEND support, and local services for families with children up to age 19 (or 25 with SEND).
• Greenwich Community Directory A searchable hub of local services, events, and support groups.
• FamilyLine by Family Action Free emotional support for parents via phone, text, email, or web chat.
• Parenting Smart by Place2Be Practical advice and tips for managing children’s wellbeing. Explore resources at Parenting Smart.
• YoungMinds Parent Helpline Free advice for parents worried about their child’s mental health. Call 0808 802 5544 or visit YoungMinds.