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Thousands of children can look forward to fun activities in the New Year with the return of the free Holiday Activities and Food progamme.

Running from Tuesday 2 January to Sunday 7 January, the events offer children between the ages of five and 16 on benefit-related free school meals the chance to enjoy a range of physical and creative activities as well as a nutritious meal each day. Young people up to the age of 18, with additional needs, are also eligible, if claiming free school meals.

The activities are run by Â鶹ÊÓƵ in conjunction with partners and are funded by the Department of Education.

Activities on offer this year include family bowling at The Dunes, a drama and games activity camp and boxing camps.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children and Families' Social Care, said: "Christmas is an expensive time and the cost-of-living crisis is making life more difficult for everyone.

"We know those who were already struggling have been hit hardest by increases in the cost of living so we hope these activities will offer some relief.

"While we wish we could offer places to all families, the criteria as to who can access these activities is laid down by the government and we must follow their guidance."

This year the Council is also providing food vouchers to families whose children receive free school meals. The vouchers are worth £10 per eligible child for each week of the Christmas holidays.

Places for the activities must be booked in advance on Eventbrite and bookings open at 4pm on 18 December. To book a place visit

To find out more about the activities visit

For those who aren't eligible to access the programme, there is a wide range of activities across the Borough. To find out more visit