PARENTS of children aged five to 16, who receive benefit-related free school meals, are being invited to take part in a range of exciting activities over the Summer holidays.
The government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme offers free activities, plus healthy meals during the school holidays.
Devon County Council have teamed up with more than 60 different activity providers across Devon to offer a range of indoor and outdoor activities.
Activities include sports, swimming, football, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, tennis, hockey, athletics, bowling, cross fit, gardening, Yoga crate stacking, and zipline.
Other activities include arts and crafts, fun with food sessions, ‘the floor is lava’, outdoor treasure hunts, forest school and board games.
Some providers are offering special visits from storytellers, magicians, animals, and trips to local attractions.
This year, there are more places available for secondary school age ranges, with activities including go-karting, climbing, trampolining, high ropes and surfing.
Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member with responsibility for children’s services, said:
'There are approximately 18,000 children and young people across Devon who are eligible to attend these funded activities, which are aimed at those aged five to 16, or aged four if they’re in reception at school.
'For many families school holidays can be difficult and stressful time.
'With families struggling with the cost-of-living crises and rising food prices with children at home food costs can quickly mount up.'