New Year fun days aimed at children who qualify for free school meals have been lined up to help boost Erewash families – as the borough council continues to support those hit hardest by the cost of living.
The Winter Holiday Activity and Food Camps include a free lunch. The first is on Thursday 2 January at the Rutland Sports Park in Ilkeston. Another the next day – Friday 3 January – will be at The Long Eaton School on Thoresby Road.
The sessions run from 10am to 2pm and are open to seven to 12-year-olds from across the borough. Children are promised “sports, games and fun activities”. At the Rutland Sports Park there will also be “soft play and inflatable bouncy castle fun”.
The school holiday camps are among several that are being held across Derbyshire as part of an initiative called It’s About Me. Funding is from the Department for Education. Families need to book in advance to enrol children using a code available from school offices. Find out more information.
The events are billed as “a brilliant mix of fun action-packed days and tasty food”. An official said: “Places are available on a first come, first served basis, with priority given to children who receive benefit-related free school meals and those with vulnerabilities.” Depending on demand, some youngsters who do not get free school meals may be able to attend. Inquiries can be emailed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Councillor Josy Hare, who is Erewash’s Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
“Keeping children fit and active during the holidays can be a challenge. The council is proud to now boast a tradition of holding camps like these when the schools are off. They are a great way for youngsters to let off steam while getting a healthy packed lunch.”
One local parent who rushed to sign up for one of the previous activity days said: “My children loved it – thank you! I loved seeing them all red faced from running around when I went to collect them.”
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