Thousands of children and young people across County Durham have enjoyed free activities, healthy meals and snacks during the school holidays thanks to a special scheme.
Over the summer, more than 3,000 children took part in nearly 40,000 sessions through Durham County Council’s Fun and Food programme.
Funded by the Department for Education, the initiative supports clubs and a wide range of enriching activities, making sure some of the county’s most vulnerable children can socialise, enjoy themselves and receive a nutritious meal or snack every day of the school break.
A total of 175 projects were funded in County Durham, with more than 300 different events available for parents and carers to choose from.
All sessions are free and include a range of activities – from sport, dance, art and crafts to outdoor adventures, fun with animals, circus skills, seaside trips and much more. Youngsters also receive either breakfast, lunch or tea and a snack.
Lauren Pull’s son Roman Crawford, six, from Evenwood Gate, attended sessions with Nikki Noo Noos this summer.
“Nikki Noo Noos forest sessions are always amazing. My son absolutely loves coming because it allows him to be himself. Nikki is great with adapting to his needs keeping him engaged and happy and the food is always lovely, healthy and delicious.”
Lauren
The popularity of the summer programme builds on the success of the Easter Fun and Food activities, which saw more than 2,000 children attend just over 7,600 sessions across the two-week break.
It also comes as the Department for Education has announced that funding for Holiday Activities and Food programmes will continue for the next three financial years.
“We’re delighted that so many families have benefited from our Fun and Food programme this summer. We know the school holidays can be a challenging time for some families and by funding these free activities, we can not only help keep youngsters entertained but we can keep rumbling tummies at bay too by providing nutritious meals and snacks.
“The confirmation of this funding will allow us to plan ahead across the next three years to ensure parents and carers have the support they need while children are off school.”
Cllr Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services
Durham County Council’s Fun and Food programme is available to children who receive benefits-related free school meals.
The next Fun and Food sessions will be held during the Christmas holidays.
To find out more, visit www.durham.gov.uk/funandfood.
