Another successful Holiday Activity and Food Programme for young people across the Cotswolds

The Holiday Activity and Food Programme, funded by the Department for Education for families eligible for benefits-related free school meals, gives children access to free activities during the school holidays. The summer programme ran for 4 weeks between 1st August and 26th August.

Cllr Jenny Forde, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “As a Council, we realise how difficult it can be for families during the holidays and so we’re pleased the HAF programme can help to give parents a break, whilst providing enriching entertainment for children too.

“We’re delighted that so many families participated in the summer HAF programme, making it the most successful Holiday Activity and Food Programme yet. There was such a great variety of events and activities so it’s really encouraging to know that the programme was well received and lots of families attended.”

The summer's programme of events and activities in the Cotswolds was organised by the youth organisation World Jungle. The programme offered a range of activities for children and their families including family play days, bushcraft sessions, circus activities, ticketed events, summer camps and much more. Like previous programmes, free food hampers were also provided for families who are eligible for free school meals.

Director of World Jungle, Ben Ward, said: “It was fantastic to have so many things available for children and young people to get involved in over the summer in the Cotswold, from circus skills and forest school to sports camps and playday celebrations. Seeing how everyone worked together from all walks of life, industry and business, it just shows what we can do when we work together.

“We hope to build on this over the next three years so that there are opportunities for all children and young people. We are especially keen to work with other organisations to help us provide nutritious food and positive activities during the school holidays, so please get in touch if you would like to support us.”

Cllr Forde continued: “Once again we’re thrilled to have won the additional funding so we can reach even more children across the District. Being able to offer HAP allows us the opportunity for more children to stay engaged and entertained during the school holidays.

“I’m also pleased to announce that we have secured funding in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council to deliver the Winter Holiday Activity and Food Programme in Winter 2022 which we would encourage all families to get involved in.” 

Cllr Stephen Davies, cabinet member for children’s safeguarding and early years at Gloucestershire County Council said: “We were delighted to partner with Cotswold District Council again this summer to offer a range of fun activities for families and help keep children and young people healthy, active and entertained.

“The HAF and HAP programmes allow children and young people to have fun, learn, meet new people, build confidence and enjoy healthy nutritious meals. It’s wonderful to see so many families taking part.”