Family Action’s Summer Fund – sun, smiles and support

9 September 2025

This summer, Family Action brought communities together across the UK with joyful, inclusive events that combined fun activities, practical support, and opportunities for connection.

Families from Stroud & Cotswold’s Children and Family Centre enjoyed a summer fun day at Dursley’s Treetops Family Hub. While in Stockton, Holiday Activities and Food programs featured Life Skills sessions, easing pressures for parents while building confidence to volunteer or return to work.

It's a full week of not having to worry about what's coming next.

Parent, Stockton service

Singing in the sunshine

In Mansfield, families enjoyed a lively day at Trowell Court Community Centre. Young vocalist Emily kicked things off with music and dancing, while children tried hook-duck competitions, quizzes, and drawing activities.

Parents also accessed practical support through initiatives like Fuel Your Finances and the FOOD club.  

I love it here because it’s like one big family, and I feel like they’ve brought me into the community.

Mansfield FOOD Club member

Reach for the sky

Young carers in Leeds and Rotherham were treated to a trip in a plane at Sherborn Aerodrome.

BBC Radio Leeds attended and interviewed some of the young carers and the centre’s manager Sophie about what the day meant to them.   

Garden get togethers

In Welwyn, children helped create an evolving “I am unique” garden mural, bringing a splash of colour to the centre all year round.

While over in Medway, families connected outdoors with sunny picnics, keepsake-making, and garden fun—including bubble machines.  

Bonding on the beach

Women over 50 from Turkish and Kurdish backgrounds in Hackney explored Brighton for the first time. Seaside walks, fish and chips, and joyful moments gave them a boost of confidence and independence.

Meanwhile, parents, carers and babies in South Tees spent a day at the beach, building confidence and social skills through sand and water play. ITV Tyne Tees joined them and interviewed parents and carers about what the day meant to them.

Watch now

The trip was more than a day at the seaside to me.  I forgot all about my worries. Thank you!

Picnics in the park

Families fromSupportive Steps, a group for new and expectant parents and carers, were treated to a special summer picnic at Wicksteed Park in Kettering.

Meanwhileat Wiltshire Community Support and Outreach Service, adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues came together for a Garden Party.  

Nurtured in nature

At Woodfield Park pre-school, families tried crafts, inflatables, and treasure hunts, and received free books from the National Literacy Trust. Practical support included CO alarms and slow cookers.

Pre-schoolers in Peterborough explored nature, rode zip wires, spotted birds, and enjoyed BBQ food, giving parents time to connect with staff and each other.  

We had a really beautiful time with everyone - lots of laughs and the best of memories made.

Peterborough Pre-school parent

At West Suffolk Neurodevelopmental Support Service, parents and carers of children with or awaiting neurodivergent diagnoses joined a surprise summer-themed event.

Decorated with beach balls, sunglasses, and bunting, the centre offered refreshments, staff advice, and community connection. Families went home with clay sets, nail art pens, Uno games, and bug-hunting kits.   

From seaside trips and garden parties to creative workshops and community celebrations, families, carers, and individuals of all ages enjoyed experiences that boosted confidence, eased pressures, and built lasting memories. A huge thank you to all of our staff, families and supporters who helped make this happen.