Affordable Holidays

Around 25% of the population can't afford a holiday at all according to research by the English Tourism Council. Yet Britain's doctors believe holidays provide essential psychological and physical benefits. An ETC survey of over 300 GPs found that 90% of our family doctors think holidays enhance the quality of life. They also reduce stress-related illnesses said 87% of the doctors and 80% said a holiday could alleviate chronic conditions such as asthma and improve behavioural problems in children.

Holidays do take up a large chunk of annual income but it is possible to take a break on the cheap and still have a fantastic time. Here are some ideas:

Camping

If the British weather is kind to you, camping is the ideal option. It's cheap, especially if you have your own equipment, and flexible and there are campsites all over the country. Ask at your local library for a directory of campsites. Some sites will provide your tent and equipment as part of the price. If you have access to the internet (and, once again, head for your library if you haven't) check out these sites: Cheapest Camping Holidays Website, or Canvas Holidays Website.

Youth hostelling

The days of cold showers, dormitories and sharing the washing up are long gone. Youth hostels have had a makeover and many of them now offer family rooms and facilities for the under-3s. To book a room you need to join the Youth Hostelling Association, £27 for a year's memberships (£13.50 for single parent families). Room prices are around £10-£11.50 per night for adults and £7-8.25 for children. Telephone 0870 770 8868 for further details, or visit YHA Website.

The great British B & B

Many B & Bs offer family rooms at rock bottom prices. In some of the most popular seaside resorts - where there's stiff competition -prices are as low as £15 per person per night. Contact the local tourist office in the area you're heading for. Your local library will have details. On the internet go to Google Website and type tourist office and then the name of the resort into the search box.

Cheap flights

Cheap flights have been the tourism success story of the decade. It pays to book early as many of the flights at peak holiday times become more expensive as school holidays approach. Keep your eyes peeled for the special offers advertised in the press, there are often some bargains to be had from your local travel agents too.

Holiday camps

Back in the 1950s holiday camps such as Butlins offered the ultimate holiday experience. After a few years in the doldrums Butlins is back with good value holidays to suit all pockets at its Skegness, Minehead and Bognor Regis resorts. Prices vary throughout the year, for latest details telephone 0870 242 1999 or visit Butlins Website.

If a holiday is beyond your budget but you desperately need a break then talk to your health visitor who may be able to refer you to a charity that organises free holidays. There are a number of charities around the UK that offer breaks for disadvantaged children and families in need. One of the largest is the Family Holiday Association, which offers 1,000 families a year a much-needed holiday. Visit FHA Website for details.

Prices correct at time of going to press

Submitted by Jane Sullivan