Services for Young People’s Easter holiday activity programme made a big difference to the lives of young people whose families may be struggling financially in the current cost-of-living crisis. The programme is designed to counteract the triple inequalities faced by Hertfordshire’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people – holiday hunger, physical inactivity and social isolation.
The sessions ran for four hours a day for four days in all areas of Hertfordshire and a total of 365 young people attended. All sessions provided a range of free physical activities, learning opportunities and healthy meals for young people eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
As well as trying adventurous physical activities such as climbing, kayaking and caving, young people could take part in creative activities which supported their mental health. These included arts and crafts and making music in the music studios at the SfYP young people’s centres.
Services for Young People Youth Workers led engaging group sessions on important issues such as alcohol awareness and healthy relationships. The young people also learnt about healthy eating and had the chance to do some cooking in the training kitchens.
Healthy meals and snacks were provided throughout, including fajitas, chilli, pasta bake and fresh fruit.
Both parents and young people gave positive feedback, highlighting the programme’s success in improving young people’s physical and mental wellbeing.
All young people who attended were invited to join our term-time projects to receive continued support. Get full details here:
SfYP projects for young people in your area
