Children to get free meals during activity days

Children in Plymouth will have another chance to enjoy fun activities as well as free meals during the school holidays.

Plymouth City Council has received government funding to continue its Fit and Fed programme.

The scheme supports families with children who receive free school meals, giving them the opportunity to keep active and eat nutritious meals.

In 2024, 2,750 free lunches were handed out while 1,000 teenagers were given the opportunity to take part in activities including trampolining and karting.

The project is funded by the Department for Education's Holiday Activities and Food programme.

In 2024 more than 30,000 children aged between 5 and 16 years old took part in activities such as football, dance and water sports.

The programme will run in the Easter, summer and Christmas breaks.

Plymouth councillor Sue Dann said she was pleased to receive funding for the project.

"Fit and Fed is an incredibly important programme and we're delighted to have received confirmation that the funding will continue because it offers vital support to families throughout the school holidays," she said.

"Not only do children and young people receive a healthy lunch, they're also given the opportunity to get physically active, meet new friends and make special memories."

Louise Kelley MBE, from Plymouth Active Leisure, said the funding made "a real difference to families" in the city.

"We are all aware of the ongoing challenges many families in the city face with the cost of living, so having access to fun, enjoyable activities in a safe and supported environment is essential."

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