Organisers of holiday activities for young people in Northumberland are inviting anyone passionate about creating opportunities to get in touch and help make this Christmas one to remember.   
 

So far this year, more than 3,500 children have enjoyed more than 120,000 hours of fun in over 90 inclusive holiday camps across the county through the Government-funded Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme.   
 

Further funding has been pledged to continue to provide activities over the Christmas and Easter breaks.   
 

From surfing to ice-skating, horse riding to arts and crafts, forest schools and visits to the region’s top attractions – over 60 partners have already signed up to get involved with the quality enrichment provision through the HAF programme which is coordinated on behalf of the council by Bedlington-based charity, Leading Link. 
 

Funded by the Department for Education and the National Lottery’s Community Fund via North East Child Poverty Trust, it was set up to offer additional support to families in the holiday periods by providing activities and delicious hot food and has grown from just two camps in 2017 to a range of over 90 activities across the county. 
 

Young people also play a key role – with a team of dedicated young leaders acting as inspiring role models whilst also gaining valuable experience in readiness for life beyond the school gates.   
 

But organisers would love to continue to expand what they can offer and are keen to hear from anyone interested in sharing their passions – whether it be an individual running a fishing course – through to organisations who could open their doors to young people for work experience opportunities. 
 

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Services, said: “The council is committed to supporting our young people and their families and I am so proud of how the county has really come together to offer these enriching activities over the holidays where young people can meet friends, learn new skills, enjoy delicious meals and make memories. 
 

“Well done and thank you to all involved. 
 

“We also have our libraries, leisure centres, community and family hubs – all offering activities, along with a network of warm spaces where residents are assured of a warm welcome.” 
 

Lyn Horton, Chief Executive Officer, Leading Link, said: “I am just constantly amazed by the passion out there in communities, with people keen to roll up their sleeves and help run these activities for our young people or share their talents.  
 

“From parents who want to get involved and our brilliant young leaders – through to people passing on their skills and many of our wonderful attractions in Northumberland, every holiday we can offer more and more.  
 

“We would love to make this Christmas one to remember and would be pleased to hear from anyone who would like to join us.” 
 

Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Lyn at Leading Link at: admin@leadlinglink.co.uk or call 01670 820088. 

 

Cost of living support is available for all Northumberland residents, providing trusted advice and information, helping with the financial support available and bringing people together in their local communities to stay warm and well this winter. For more information visit nland.cc/support. 
 

If you would like to speak to someone, phone our Northumberland Communities Together response hub on 01670 620015 from 9am to 6pm 7 days a week or email NCT@northumberland.gov.uk. 
 

If you think someone may need immediate support, help or protection ring our emergency response line OneCall on 01670 536400 - 24/7, 365 days a year