Lunch and fun clubs are vital for youngsters

SCHOOL holidays can be a worrying time for families where children receive free school meals during term time.

Quite simply, many household budgets cannot cope with the extra pressure, and it is no coincidence that charities like the Trussell Trust, which supports the Cynon Valley foodbank, notes demand for food parcels increase during the summer months.

I’ve raised the spectre of “holiday hunger” in the Welsh Assembly, and welcomed the Welsh Government’s investment of £500,000 in lunch and fun clubs to support children and parents during holidays.

As well as providing breakfast and a midday meal, the clubs offer sports, art activities and education on healthy eating. It was a privilege to visit the club in Penywaun Primary School during August to see how local children were benefiting.

I will be asking the Welsh Government how they can expand this initiative during the next summer, to ensure Cynon Valley children do not go hungry during the holidays.

The summer also marks the time when young people receive the results of their exams.

As a former teacher, I know all too well the hard work that learners put in, with support from parents, teachers and the school community and congratulate everyone getting their results.

Hopefully, this will have meant our young people getting the grades they need, but, if not, there are always sources of advice out there to help you make the right decisions for your future, such as Careers Wales in Aberdare town centre.

Thanks to all those who have filled out my survey on Sunday train services. If you haven’t but would like to, go to www.surveymonkey. com/r/Q7MPB35. I am also launching a survey on Sunday bus services, and would be grateful if you could have a say at www.surveymonkey. com/r/QGB7YNG. For a paper copy, ring my office on 01685 881388 and I will post one out.