A whole host of activities will be on offer for Kirklees children and young people throughout the summer holidays.

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will help children to stay active and healthy, boosting their mental and physical wellbeing.

It is jointly organised by Kirklees Council and a wide range of partners and community groups. Sessions will be running across the district and will include free food.

HAF activities are for children and young people who receive free school meals, but spaces may be available for those who don’t (depending on the take-up of places by children eligible for free school meals).

The web page www.kirklees.gov.uk/schoolsout contains more details, including a chance to download the app and receive the latest updates.

HAF activities are part of the wider School’s Out scheme, which includes sessions that are open to everyone. The same web page provides links to what’s available, such as fun sessions involving arts and crafts, cookery, sport and music.

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Clr Carole Pattison, Cabinet member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, said: “Our primary aim is to help those who need it the most, but there’s a huge amount on offer during the school holidays.

“Kirklees is such a lively and diverse area, with lots of community groups working with children and families – there will be something out there for everyone.

“Our parks, museums and beautiful countryside are another way for families to enjoy themselves and have summer fun together.

“School holidays can be difficult times, but we’re keen to see children staying entertained and healthy so that they enjoy themselves and return to school ready to learn.”

Clr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children, said: “We want all of our children to have the best possible start in life and, after the disruption they have faced during the pandemic, this has never been more vital.

“Although some of our activities are for open to particular groups, many can be accessed by everyone.

“The Kirklees holiday programme is evolving all the time so that, along with our partners, we can support the maximum number of people and make a difference in young lives.

“Covid has affected our families in many ways, especially those families who are vulnerable, and we are here to help them all year round.”