We know that the summer break can be a challenge for families. With this in mind, we would like to share some accessible resources and schemes, which might help to make the holidays manageable and enjoyable for all.
Free Meals and Activities
During the school holidays, Gloucestershire County Council provide activities and food for children and young people who receive benefits-related free school meals. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you can get in touch with the free school meal team at freeschoolmeals@gloucestershire.gov.uk. The soft launch opens on 22 June where you will be able to view activities and plan what you want to do before bookings go live on 6 July. Bookings open from midday on 6 July. Make sure you’re ready to book by checking your account now-visit the Family Hub website and booking system here.
For additional information, visit this page.
Find a free recipe book that has been compiled by other Gloucestershire parents featuring good value, healthy meal ideas here.
Wellbeing Support
- Let’s Talk Well is a Gloucestershire charity whose mission is to improve, preserve and promote good mental health and wellbeing among children, young people and their families. Their website includes several ways you or your young person can get in touch with them for safe, confidential, non-judgemental support during the holidays and at any other point of the year.
- The Wellbeing Hub if you or your child signed up for free access to this platform as mentioned in the school newsletter on 5th June, you can find expert advice and resources on their website. It includes helpful videos, articles and practical strategies on topics such as anxiety, friendships, behaviour and resilience. It is always available for children and young people aged 10 and above, allowing them to use the search function to access safe, age appropriate resources and find answers to their concerns while away from school through the Q&A library. The A–Z of Wellbeing also offers helpful ideas to explore over the holidays.
Things to Do
The following local activities are either free of charge or low cost. Click on the links for more information.
- The Gloucestershire Summer Library Challenge is free to take part in and offers interactive activities and rewards for children of all ages, including those aged 12+.
- The Door is a local youth charity that runs regular free youth clubs throughout the area, including activities during the summer holidays.
- Cirencester Outdoor Pool runs a Youth Swim (Years 7 – 11) every Friday evening from 7.15 – 8.30pm and entry is just £1.
- The annual Phoenix Festival is being held at the Abbey Grounds in Cirencester on 29th and 30th August, offers two free days of music, dance and family fun.
- Health for Teens has some great ideas for ‘Awesome and (mostly free) things for teens to do this summer’.
See below for more free family activities…
