Summer holiday fun is proving to be a lifeline for families in North Yorkshire.

The FEAST programme, in partnership with North Yorkshire Together, is providing children and young people across the county with the opportunity to socialise, learn new skills, and stay active during the summer holidays.

While the programme is open to all children and young people in the area, those who receive benefits-related free school meals can attend for free and also receive a hot meal or packed lunch.

The programme has received funding from the Department of Education and has seen an increase in successful bids from activity providers compared to last year.

Executive member for education, learning, and skills for North Yorkshire Council, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said: 
“The FEAST programme offers a vitally important service to families, helping to ease the pressures that many households usually face during the school holiday period, such as added childcare and food costs."

Single mother-of-two, Jade Wrightson, says the programme is a "lifesaver" for her family.

She said: "Without FEAST I wouldn’t be able to work. I’m a teaching assistant and I clean too. I would have to save up to afford these activities or search for free things to do. Thanks to FEAST, the children enjoy a full day out playing and trying activities they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to do."

Eligible families will receive information about FEAST and a voucher to book their free place via their school.

More information about the program can be found at the North Yorkshire Together website.