Wiltshire Olympic hopeful Tom Gale encourages sign up to Wiltshire Council free FUEL programme for families in need

Grant funding from the Department for Education is being used to deliver the programme called FUEL to eligible children.

During the Easter holidays children that register for FUEL will receive healthy packed lunches and an activity pack that enables them to be physically active at home. All children who sign up will also be entered into a prize draw to win a school visit from Olympic hopeful, British High Jump Champion and Wiltshire athlete Tom Gale, once he returns from the Tokyo Olympics.

Parents with eligible children have until 12pm on 29 March to register to be part of the Easter programme and eligible families should speak to their school to sign up.

Councillor Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Skills said, "School holidays can be pressure points for some families because of increased costs and reduced incomes. This is particularly the case after such a challenging year when household incomes have been impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. The FUEL programme aims to address this issue by making available free holiday activity provision which incorporates fun and engaging activities as well as a nutritious food offer."

"This programme is open to all families with children eligible for free school meals and we strongly urge parents to register their children by 29 March."

Councillor Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Libraries said, "The FUEL programme will provide eligible young people with a positive programme of activities to take part in during three significant school holiday periods. Children will be able to have fun, stay active and make new friends, which is essential to their development after a year of being unable to socialise."

For further information about the Holiday Activity and Food Programme in Wiltshire please email fuelprogramme@wiltshire.gov.uk