Summer Of Fun Stats are in!

In true Vale spirit, Summer of Fun 2022 was a huge collaborative effort.

Last summer, our Healthy Living team worked with our Family Information Service, other internal departments and local organisations to create a fun-filled schedule, packed with free activities for children and young people aged up to 25 during the summer months.

The Sports Development Team, Play Development Team, Libraries Service, Tourism & Events Team, Countryside Services, Youth Services, Arts Development Service, Flying Start Team and the Community Safety Team all delivered activities for of the programme.

The scheme was funded by Welsh Government and aimed to support the social, mental, and physical wellbeing of children and young people and support families with the costs of activities during the summer holidays.

The project has been deemed a huge success following a glowing report with record breaking participation rates and sessions delivered.

Take a look at some of the highlights in our short video:

In partnership with 130 teams and organisations, the scheme delivered 147 activities across 946 sessions over 23 areas of the Vale, including fossil hunting, archery, play sessions, dance classes and radio workshops.

The activities aimed to support re-engagement in community activities following the impact of Covid restrictions, encourage physical activity, embrace the outdoors and improve confidence and social skills in a fun, friendly environment.

During the programme, there were a total of 19,571 attendances and with inclusivity at the heart of the scheme, 24% of these were attendances from young people with additional needs, a disability or an impairment and 29% of these were from families affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

Following the Summer of Fun project, the Healthy Living team asked for feedback from participants, most of which was greatly positive.

One participant said: “It was so fantastic, there were so many wonderful opportunities.

“Thank you for valuing our young people.”

Another said: “It would not have been possible for me to pay for all the activities.

“My nine year old was so excited knowing that she was able to take part in activites rather than be stuck in the house.”

Well done to everyone involved in creating an unforgettable summer!