With summer break just weeks away, many parents are already feeling the financial pressure of keeping their children entertained. New figures from children's money app GoHenry have sparked debate by revealing the average pocket money for British kids is nearly £10 a week.
Average Pocket Money Revealed
The analysis, based on data from over 600,000 youngsters aged 7 to 18 across the UK, found that children receive an average of £9.90 per week. This varies significantly by region: children in the South East get the highest at £12.88, while those in the East of England receive the lowest at £8.57.
Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, pocket money has increased by 1.2% compared to the same period in 2025. The data also shows that many children are saving an average of £3.93 per week.
Expert Insight
Louise Hill, founder of GoHenry, commented: "Despite the rising cost of living, kids are still setting money aside week after week, saving an average of £3.93 per week, and it's become second nature for them."
The Summer Holiday Debate
As the holidays approach, parents face a familiar question: should children receive extra spending money when they are out and about more often? Some see pocket money as a tool for teaching budgeting and financial decision-making, while others believe children should earn extra cash through chores.
However, with many households still feeling the strain from higher food bills and expensive summer activities, some argue that youngsters already receive plenty and should learn to make their pocket money stretch further. The school holidays can place additional pressure on budgets, with childcare, activities, and food costs rising.
Others believe the summer break offers a perfect opportunity for children to learn valuable lessons about budgeting, saving, and making spending choices. While the numbers may seem modest, they highlight a wider conversation taking place across Britain as summer approaches.
Should children receive extra spending money during the holidays, or is learning to manage a weekly allowance all part of growing up? The debate continues among parents and experts alike.
