Spring holiday hubs
FAMILIES in Inverclyde are being offered support with childcare during the upcoming Easter school break.
The new council-run service is open to families who are in employment and places will be prioritised for low income families who are eligible for free school meals and clothing grants.
The local authority is working in partnership with local organisations such as Barnardo’s to provide two holiday hubs for children and young people.
The hubs will run Monday-Friday from 8.30am- 4.30pm and will be located in the Port Glasgow Community Campus and at Clydeview Academy in Gourock for youngsters aged 5-18.
The aim is to support working families during the school holiday period, from Tuesday 6 April, by providing a safe and fun environment where their children can go play and learn.
Inverclyde Council has successfully secured funding from the Scottish Government to deliver the hubs, which are supported by national organisation Children in Scotland.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, convener of education and communities, said: “The pandemic has already affected employment opportunities for many residents so we must do all we can to support working families to continue to work and earn during the Easter holidays.
“Similar type hubs ran during the October break last year and they were very well received by parents, carers and the young people themselves.
“The hubs will provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment for all children and young people who access the service, giving them the opportunity to try new activities, have fun and meet new friends.”
The holiday hubs will provide activities which are relevant to the age and stage of children in attendance.
Young people can expect things like outdoor play, team games, sport and physical activities, problem solving tasks, cooking and creative arts.
Application forms are being sent to all families via their child’s school and are also available on the Inverclyde Council website at www.inverclyde.gov.uk/holidayhubs or by calling 01475 712850 to apply for a place.
All completed applications must be emailed to admin.educationhq@inverclyde.gov.uk by the closing date on Wednesday 17 March.