Local organisations that work with children and young people across Falkirk can now apply for up to £10,000 of funding to support them in improving their wellbeing over the summer holidays.

The fund is specifically designed to help those children and young people who have been most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic through providing activities including sports; expressive arts; crafts; outdoor learning; trips and visits. The provision of food is also included in the fund.

Groups can apply online where applicants can read the guidance notes before submitting a request.

The fund is part of Scottish Government’s social renewal agenda following the pandemic and is focused on getting it right for every child by promoting the wellbeing of children and young people as Scotland recovers from COVID-19.

It also complements wider investment in holiday support through free school meal replacement for those eligible for free school meals on the basis of low income and wider investment in education recovery.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “The fund is designed to ensure that the children and young people who need the most support have the best summer they can through play, being active and above all, enjoying themselves.

“We want to see as many groups and organisations apply so that the maximum numbers can benefit across all our communities.”

Applications for the fund close at 11am on Monday 31 May. For more information, email fairerfalkirk@falkirk.gov.uk.