Children and young people across Rhondda Cynon Taf are set to enjoy a ‘Summer of Fun’ as part of a multi-million-pound Welsh Government project across Wales.
Those on their annual school holidays can participate in the Summer of Fun project for the second consecutive year following a £7M Welsh Government funding package for the project, which proved very popular last year.
The scheme will run until September 30, supporting children and young people to take part in a range of FREE sporting, cultural and play-based activities.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, with responsibility for Children’s Services, said: “I am delighted once again that Summer of Fun is making a welcome return to our County Borough, helping many of our children, young people and families in so many ways.
“As well as easing childcare issues, the project also helps keep our young people in touch with their school friends during the summer break, also allowing them to make new friends.
“It is important for their health and wellbeing that they remain active and focused through a wide range of activities available to them, making it an unforgettable Summer of Fun.”
All activities are inclusive for children and young people up to the age of 25, from all backgrounds and all parts of Wales, and are available in Welsh, English or bilingually, in addition to regulated summer childcare provision.
Last summer over 67,500 children took part in Summer of Fun activities across Wales including music, theatre, sea-based sport activities, climbing and zip-lining.
Wales Deputy Minister for Social Services, Julie Morgan, said: “We originally launched Summer of Fun as a response to children missing out on opportunities to socialise in activities after the pandemic, but after seeing how successful it was, we chose to run the scheme again.
“Access to high-quality play opportunities is critical for the social, emotional and physical development of children. Working with key partners we have invested in play opportunities, making over £42m available since 2013.
“This year we will also be supporting providers to offer food at their activities, helping with some of the serious issues we face around holiday hunger and the cost-of-living crisis.”
The three main objectives of the ‘Summer of Fun’ project are supporting fun and the opportunity for children and young people to express themselves through play; community-based interactive, creative and play-based initiatives for all ages; and to provide opportunities to play with friends and peers.
Posted on 01/08/2022