Thousands Benefit from Free Summer Activities Through SHINE Programme

Published 22 September 2026

Thousands of children and young people across West Dunbartonshire enjoyed free activities, meals and support throughout the summer holidays thanks to the Council’s SHINE Summer Programme.

The initiative was designed to help families during the school holiday period, supporting free activities and access to meals and snacks, at a time when financial pressures for families can be increased.

The Council adopted a two-pronged approach, offering both community-based activities open to all children and young people and targeted support for those with severe and complex needs.

Over five weeks, 6,262 participants took part in a wide range of activities including sports, outdoor learning, creative arts, music, STEM, gaming, family trips and cultural experiences. Every session included free meals, snacks or refreshments.

The programme also placed a strong emphasis on inclusion, with projects providing opportunities accessible by almost all   children and young people including those with Additional Support Needs (ASN).

Feedback from families, children and partner organisations has highlighted the positive impact of the programme.

Partnership projects delivered through SHINE funding have already demonstrated significant benefits. Centre81 Family Trips and the Vale of Leven FC Summer Camp supported 118 children and young people and 27 adults, while providing 460 free meals. All activities were fully funded and free to attend.

Families reported that without the SHINE programme many experiences would have been out of reach due to admission costs, transport expenses and ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

One partner organisation said: "Everyone was extremely grateful that we could enable them to create fun memories together as families that they most likely wouldn't have had the option to do otherwise."

The Specialist Setting Summer Programme, based at Kilpatrick School Campus, provided 354 placements for 118 children and young people with severe and complex needs over a four-week period.

Supported by familiar staff who understood participants’ individual needs, they enjoyed activities delivered in partnership with West Dunbartonshire Libraries, Clifftop Arts, Indepen-dance and Active Schools. The programme also made use of the campus's sensory garden, soft play area, adventure playground and dedicated sensory spaces.

A total of 249 lunches were provided and transport support was made available to remove barriers to participation.

Families praised the programme for providing valuable respite and helping maintain routines during the summer break.

One grandparent said: "The summer programme has been amazing support for my grandson; he has absolutely loved it. It was also great to get a bit of respite for my family."

A parent added: "My child attending the summer programme has definitely given me the respite I need. It's a service that is well needed to support my child as well as parent mental health."

Convener of Educational Services Councillor Michelle McGinty, said: "We know that school holidays can be a difficult time for many families, particularly as the cost of living continues to impact households across West Dunbartonshire. The SHINE Summer Programme has provided thousands of children and young people with opportunities to stay active, learn new skills, make friends and enjoy healthy meals throughout the summer.”

Vice Convener of Educational Services, Councillor John Millar, said: "It is especially encouraging to see the positive impact the programme has had on children and young people with additional support needs and on families who have benefited from much-needed support and respite during the summer. I would like to thank all of our staff and partner organisations whose hard work helped make this year's programme such a great success."

Full evaluations from partner organisations will help inform future funding and planning for 2027.