Free meals and activities for eligible children during summer holidays

Free meals and activities are again on offer for eligible children across the Stockton-on-Tees Borough during the summer holidays.

There are more than 19,000 places available for a range of sessions, including sports, dancing, cooking and gardening.

Each day includes a free nutritious meal for every child taking part.

It's all thanks to the Holidays Are Fun (HAF) programme, being delivered by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council in partnership with Catalyst and the Department for Education.

The activity sessions are running from Monday, July 25 until Friday, September 2 for children aged five to 16.

And HAF bookings, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis, have opened today (July 6).

The activities are available for families who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals, in receipt of Universal Credit or experiencing financial difficulties.

Councillor Lisa Evans, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "With the rising cost of living, it's more important than ever to be able to step in to help families with the free meals and activities.

"We know how important it is for children to have a go at new things and learn new skills, as well as having a healthy meal each day.

"There's something for all interests and abilities and if you think your child could be eligible then I'd urge you to get signed up as soon as you can to avoid any disappointment.

"We're hoping that as many children as possible get signed up to take part!"

To book your place, visit the dedicated HAF web page.

If you have any queries you can email haf@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 527752.

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