Oliver Lewis

A survey of 1,000 parents found that 63% struggle to keep children entertained throughout the summer holidays, with work commitments, differing interests among siblings and a lack of inspiration among the main obstacles. Although 89% of parents consider outdoor play important, 46% say their children spend an hour or less outside each day. GoGo squeeZ and JB Gill are promoting challenge-based outdoor activities, drawing on concepts from the brand’s Roblox game GoGo Climb. Suggested activities include scavenger hunts, timed missions, progressive challenges, personal-best goals and imaginative games such as avoiding “lava.”

Skipton Building Society has submitted several new British currency emojis to the Unicode Consortium to encourage more open discussions about money, particularly among young adults. CEO Jazz Gakhal argues that the lack of UK‑specific financial emojis makes money conversations less relatable and suggests that new symbols such as a pound coin, piggy bank and rainy‑day fund could ease discomfort around financial topics. Research cited shows Gen Z and many adults find discussing savings and repayments awkward, with a significant portion believing more relevant emojis would help. Gakhal emphasizes that improved digital tools and supportive guidance can promote healthier financial conversations across all age groups.

A survey of 2,000 UK adults found that those who follow consistent financial routines saved an average of £320 over the past year, with most respondents saying such habits are essential for managing budgets. Many use practical tools like budgeting apps and smart meters, with two‑thirds of smart meter owners reporting improved monitoring of energy use and nearly half adopting energy‑saving habits. Sarah Fitzgerald and TV personality Harry Aikines‑Aryeetey highlighted how daily routines and access to real‑time information support better control over spending and household energy consumption.