Published 13 April 2023

Local organisation and groups are being encouraged to apply for Council funding to support delivery of a range of free fun and enjoyable activities for young people this summer.

The Council has committed £100,000 of funding to support SHINE (School Holidays Involve Nurture & Engage) projects for the 5th year.

The initiative was created in 2019 to work with community organisations to increase provision of free social activities for school pupils in the area.

Last year, over 10,000 children, young people and families participated in 18 SHINE initiatives across the authority, including arts and crafts sessions, sports, games, breakfast/lunch clubs, family activities.

Funding is available to not-for-profit constituted groups, who will provide free activities to children, young people and families in West Dunbartonshire between Monday 3 July and Friday 4 August 2023.

Activities could include arts, sports, games, play, breakfast/lunch clubs, with food also provided free of charge as part of the funding.  

Councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to offer this funding for the fifth year. This not only provides summer activities for our young people while helping families who are struggling this year, but also strengthens the partnership between the council and our community groups who are doing amazing work within the area.”

Councillor John Millar, Vice Convener of Educational Services, said: “We’ve had really amazing programmes in the past and I’m sure we’ll have the same again this year. It’s even more important that we’re providing this funding this year during a cost of living crisis, giving families the opportunity to participate in fun and educational activities without worrying about money. I would encourage any local organisation to take part in what is always a successful programme.”

Deadlines for applications is:  Friday 5th May 2023

Or by contacting: gill.graham@west-dunbarton.gov.uk