Free meals and activities for children

FREE healthy meals and access to a range of activities are being made available to children this Easter.

More than 20,000 Staffordshire children and young people, who are in receipt of benefits related to free school meals, will be eligible for the Easter holiday programme.

It includes physical play, enriching activities, nutritional advice and a healthy meal.

The programme is being organised by Staffordshire County Council, and funded by the Department for Education.

Mark Sutton, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “This is a really important programme for lots of Staffordshire families, and we’re delighted to be able to offer it again over the Easter holidays.

“It means that children will get access to activities and a hot meal, helping keep them active and well fed over the Easter break.

“Last year, we ran the programme in the summer and winter with over 50,000 places available.

“This year we’re working with even more organisations, community groups and charities to offer more choice and availability across all of our districts.

“More unusual activities include fencing, archery and even clay pigeon shooting for young people. Plus the traditional favourites such as dodgeball, football, drama and craft activities are all available.

“I would urge parents to have a look at the criteria and, if eligible, sign up when the application process opens.”

‘Koala Klubs’ is returning after a successful winter programme, and has extended their offer to include drop-in sessions for 12 to 16-year-olds.

Neil Vanderwalt, Koala Klubs chief executive, said: “We ran the programme at Christmas and it was great to get so many children back in the pool after covid, as restrictions meant they hadn’t been swimming for ages.

“We’ve extended our offer for Easter into more districts, and even have a drop-in session for young people to enjoy activities such as sport, roller-skating and art.”

Jon Davies, operations manager from Aspire Active Camps, said: “We’re delighted to be collaborating again with the county council to provide even more amazing experiences this Easter.”

All those eligible will receive a letter from their school. Apply at www.staffordshire. gov.uk/holidayactivities