The summer holidays are nearly here and with six weeks free from lessons, homework and the usual school routines, many families will be busy planning fun things to do.

For those on lower incomes, juggling finances during the summer can be particularly hard, but Buckinghamshire Council is once again providing extra support for those who need it.

Children in Reception up to Year 11 who receive benefits-related free school meals can take part in up to 16 free holiday club sessions over the six-week break. The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will be running in over 60 locations, offering a wide range of activities including sports, cooking, pickleball, coding and martial arts sessions. Those eligible for the HAF sessions will have received a code via an email from Holiday Activities to book places. Each session includes a healthy meal for the children taking part. For more information on HAF visit thewebsite.

Certain families are also being given a £50 food voucher per eligible child to help with the cost of providing extra food during the holiday period.

Anita Cranmer, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Education, said:

“We know that school holidays can place additional pressures on family budgets. That is why we have developed a range of support for those who need it. The summer should be a fun and carefree time for all children, and we hope this support will help ensure that everyone is able to make the most of their summer break.”

There are lots of free family events taking place over the summer months and beyond. Once again this year, Buckinghamshire Council’s hugely popular WhizzFizz is teaming up with partners to offer free fun family events in Aylesbury, Chesham and High Wycombe. This includes Wycombe Celebrates, a new festival of the senses on Sunday 8 September in High Wycombe. Visit the WhizzFizz website to find out what’s on in your local area.

The Buckinghamshire Family Information Service is a great one stop shop to find details of local things to do with your family this summer. There is also a handy directory which allows you to search for types of activities and specific locations.

Here is a reminder of some of the other free or low-cost things you can do right here in Bucks this summer:

• Explore the local countryside on foot or bike. Find details of walks and trails for all ages and abilities on our website: https://familyinfo.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/things-to-do/family-friendly-walks
• Buckinghamshire’s Country Parks have miles of scooter and buggy-friendly paths as well as fun play areas and cafes. A variety of family-friendly events are also planned over the summer. For more information visit: https://countryparks.buckinghamshire.gov.uk
• Go on an interactive adventure with Love Exploring. Download the free app and join in the fun in parks and open spaces across the county. This summer try out the new themed activities involving Tree Fairies and Butterflies and Moths: Love Exploring

• Join the 2024 Summer Reading Challenge at your local library. This year’s challenge is called Marvellous Makers and encourages children to get creative and enjoy reading during the summer. Visit your local library for lots of FREE activities this summer:2024 Summer Reading Challenge

• All of Buckinghamshire’s leisure centres will be running activities and fun family sessions throughout the summer. Check the details of your local centre online: https://www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/health-wellbeing-and-sports/leisure-centres-and-sports-clubs/leisure-centres
• The Discover Bucks Museum and Wycombe Museum have a range of fun events and activities taking place during the holidays. Some activities have a small fee and booking is necessary. Visit their websites for more information: https://www.discoverbucksmuseum.org; https://wycombemuseum.org.uk
• Open Weekend 2024 offers the opportunity to explore Buckinghamshire culture over one long weekend (25-28 July) with free and low cost family-friendly summer activities including: music, theatre, online events, heritage, talks, outdoor activities, and art & craft workshops. https://buckinghamshireculture.org/projects/open-weekend-whats-on

Clive Harriss, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, commented:

“Whatever the age or interest of the children or young people in your family, you really are spoilt for choice for things to do in Buckinghamshire this summer. And even better, many options are either free or low cost so everyone can enjoy them. So please go out and enjoy the available activities!"