Stafford MP welcomes £600 million commitment for school-holiday clubs
Organisations that provide food and activities for deprived youngsters will benefit from a three-year spending commitment from the Government, says an MP.
The Government has agreed to a three-year, £600 million programme for activities that provide food and activities for children from deprived backgrounds during the school holidays.
The commitment has been welcomed by Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, who said it meant both the organisations and parents would be able to make plans without the fear of the money being taken away.
Miss Ingham said the Holiday Activities and Food programme saved families on lower incomes £800 a year, by offering free meals alongside sports, arts, and other activities during the school holidays.
But she said up until now, budgets had been set on an annual basis, making it difficult for the organisations which run the schemes to make long-term plans.
This was also disruptive for parents who did not know whether support would be available, she added.
She said 85 per cent of the places went to children in receipt of free school meals, with the remainder coming from families who were able to demonstrate a recognised need.
Miss Ingham said it helped close the development gap, boosted confidence and social skills, and had reached more than half a million children over the past year.
She said the clubs made a huge difference to her constituents.
"When school doors close, they step in with good food, fun, and a safe place for children to be themselves," she added.
"This long-term investment means parents don’t have to worry about whether the support will still be there next year. It gives families certainty, and it giveschildren the best chance to thrive.”
Stephen Glover, who runs Stafford Sports Performance Academy, said: “The benefits for young people and families are massive in many ways and will enhance the lives of so many in Stafford.
"It has been our privilege to be a provider in the heart of Stafford and we look forward to engaging with more young people andfamilies in years to come.”
