The Isle of Wight Council would like to hear from schools, community groups and voluntary organisations who can run free activities for youngsters during the February half term.
Grant funding is available for local groups and organisations to host free holiday clubs and activities for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals, with places also available for children on Education and Health Care Plans (EHCP) or those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
More information including an application form is available now on the connect4communities.org website.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children’s services, said:
“Are you a group or organisation planning to run activities during the February half term?
“If so, this is your opportunity to apply now for grant funding to provide some free places for families on low incomes.
“School holidays can be particularly difficult for families because of increased costs, such as food and childcare and reduced incomes — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This means some children and young people are less likely to access organised out-of-school activities and can miss out on the social and health benefits of such activities.
Article continues below this advertisement “By taking part in a free holiday club where a nutritious meal is provided, disadvantaged children get to enjoy the same enriching experiences as many of their friends and peers.
“We want to hear from schools, voluntary and community groups and other organisations about what they can offer our children and young people to ensure they have enriching, exciting and fulfilling experiences over the February half term.”
Providing a nutritious meal and healthy activities — from horse riding and theatre skills to sports coaching and soft play sessions — hundreds of Island youngsters have already benefitted from the government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
More information is also available at https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/childrenandfamilies/connectforcommunities/holidayactivities/holiday-activities-iow.
