Council offering free Easter activities

Eligible children can book in now

Children and young people who are eligible for benefit-related free school meals will be able to take part in four days of activities this Easter.

Parents and guardians can apply for their children to take part in Devon County Council's (DCC) government-funded Holiday Activities and Food programme for eligible five to 16-year-olds which provides free activities and healthy meals during school holidays.

The council has teamed up with more than 50 activity providers across Devon to offer indoor and outdoor activities.

Sports and games on offer include dodgeball, paddle boarding, bowling, kayaking, canoeing, badminton, table tennis, mountain biking, football, rugby, tennis, hockey, athletics, cricket, rounders, and basketball.

Other activities include arts and crafts, fun with food sessions, the floor is lava, educational worksheets and quizzes, outdoor treasure hunts and board games.

Some providers are also offering special visits from storytellers, magicians, and animals for example, which are sure to appeal to younger primary-age children.

More places are available this year for secondary age children, and all activities are fully funded, and come with a healthy meal.

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for children's services, said: “For many families school holidays can be difficult & stressful time. With families struggling with the cost-of-living crises and rising food prices with children at home food costs can quickly mount up.

“We know, from our previous Holiday Activities and Food programmes, how much children and young people value this time, and we're delighted to be working with even more providers this year. Please have a look at our website to see what’s happening near you.”

Parents or guardians of eligible children will have received a unique HAF code from their school or direct into their mailbox that needs to be given to their chosen HAF provider.