Published 29 June 2022

A fun packed programme of free activities which will keep children fit, entertained and having fun over the summer holidays has been launched. 

The Council, in partnership with local organisations and childcare providers will offer a wide range of entertaining and engaging activities including a free snack or lunch over July and August.

The targeted childcare provision will support low income families who are eligible, to continue with Education, training and employment and will ensure summer support for our families who need it most. In partnership with Health and Social Care Partnership, the Council has identified and will support our most vulnerable families with access to the childcare provision.

Activities suitable for 5 to 16 year olds will be held in various locations across West Dunbartonshire and are focused on learning, the environment and health and wellbeing.

Families are being encouraged to sign up for a wide range of activities including sports, games, arts & crafts activities, theatrical classes and cinema screenings. A programme of fun and learning has been planned for children and young people with severe and complex needs, based in our Kilpatrick School campus. This will ensure all eligible pupils will access fun activities whilst ensuring they have the healthcare and support needs including travel.

West Dunbartonshire Youth Alliance have also organised free activities for young people across West Dunbartonshire. Activities will be held in a safe outdoor environment and will include a free lunch and transport to and from the event organised by Working 4U.  Events include a trip to Mugdock Country Park where children can try a variety of sports and arts activities and a trip to Go Country Water Park trip at Aberfoyle. To book, please visit https://padlet.com/working4u/youth or email yaactivities@west-dunbarton.gov.uk or call 01389 738775.

Councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services said: “We know how difficult it can be to keep young people entertained over the summer holidays. Every year this is a very popular programme and free lunches and snacks are available at many of the activities.   Our summer programme will ensure children and their families have fun activities they can do over the holidays and I’m sure these will prove to be really popular with young people, parents and carers.  I am particularly pleased to see activities for children with additional support needs being built into the programme.   The summer holidays can be a challenging time for parents, particularly when money is tight, and these sessions are an opportunity for all young people regardless of their family’s financial position to have fun, to learn and spend time with their friends.”

Councillor Michelle McGinty, Chair of Health and Social Care Partnership, added: “These activities will be a real benefit to the summer calendar for parents and carers who can sometimes struggle with the cost of keeping children entertained. We are committed to supporting our residents with the rising cost of living and this programme means that no matter your situation, your child will be able to have a fun and memorable summer holiday packed with opportunities.  I would like to thank our partners who are supporting us this year by providing such a varied programme of events. We are very grateful to them for their support and I’m sure families will have a great time over the summer holidays.”

To book a place on the Shine holiday programme, please visit - (Now Closed)

 Spaces are limited so families are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.