DWP funding will provide holiday activities during October half term

Stockport Council has confirmed receipt of funding from the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) Household Support Fund that will be used to provide free food and activities for children during the October half term.

The clubs will offer a range of fun activities such as art and crafts, sports and games as well as provide a nutritious meal each day. Places will be prioritised to children that are in receipt of income-based free school meals.

School holidays can be a difficult time for families, with increased costs including food and childcare. The free clubs will ensure no child misses out on an exciting, happy and healthy October half term holiday. Information on the clubs available throughout the borough and details of how to access a place can be found on the Stockport Childcare Directory website.

Cllr Malcolm Allan, Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources at Stockport Council, commented:

“The Department for Education (DfE) funded Holiday Activities and Food Programme has been a fantastic resource for families during the Easter, summer and Christmas school holidays We recognise that this is an extremely difficult time for families, as the cost of food and fuel continues to rise. As part of our warm and well initiative we are committed to using funding from the Household Support Fund to deliver this essential programme for children during the forthcoming October half term.”

Half term activities are just one initiatives the council and its partners are providing to support residents with the rise in the cost of living. More information on all the help that’s available, not just direct from the council, can be found on the council website or by contacting Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7803.

The Holiday Activity Fund programme will return in Christmas and applications are now open. Those received before 28 October are guaranteed to be considered for the Christmas 2022 school holidays.