Agenda item

The item was introduced by the Area Council Manager who reminded Members of the £10,000 allocated to the Ward Alliances to support families in the school holidays, recognising the impact of no free school meals, the cost of activities or childcare and the potential loss of earnings in the school hoildays.

A breadth of activities had been arranged, with 918 healthy lunches eaten, plus any additional food being distributed through the 0-19 team to those most in need.  37 sessions had been delivered in addition to activities undertaken at galas throughout the summer.

The Area Team helped to ensure that events were family inclusive and activities took place in 16 venues, with 55 volunteers involved in the organisation and running of events, 16 of which were new volunteers.

A total of £4,342 was spent with an additional £1,000 pledged by Darfield Ward Alliance to extend the programme in their ward.

Members heard how the events were inclusive so as not to stigmatise any families or children from attending, however it was acknowledged that this resulted in benefits being harder to quantify.

Noted was the learning from the programme, which included that certain locations worked better than others, and that the events could be better promoted and organised with a greater lead in time.

Those present heard of the positive links being made with such as the 0-19 and nursing teams.

The Area Manager drew attention to a number of specific successes, which included the Family Fun Day in Hoyland, taster sessions at Elsecar Cricket Club, the Wombwell Family Fishing day and the provision at summer galas in Darfield.

Members praised the positive work done throughout the Area, especially considering the costs involved, and the positive foundation to build on in future years.

RESOLVED:-

(i)            That praise be given to all those involved in the organisation of Healthy Holidays provision;

(ii)          That discussion on further financial support of Healthy Holidays provision is undertaken as part of consideration of the Area Council budget.