A total of 1,167 children who benefit from free school meals engaged in special summer activities this year, marking an increase from last summer's 1,008 participants. Organised by Herefordshire Council's Talk Community Team, the programme offered a plethora of activities run by over 34 local organisations, including horse-riding, pottery, and cheerleading.

Councillor Ivan Powell, Herefordshire Council Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, commended the programme. "This excellent course of activities which we can only provide with the support of the county’s fantastic activity providers means we are able to offer children the opportunity to learn new skills, make friends and have great fun," he said. Ivan Powell also highlighted the importance of the programme in light of the cost of living crisis, noting, "It is particularly encouraging to see growing numbers of families making use of these activities."

In addition to the wide variety of activities, children were provided with a free meal at each session. The programme, known as the Here for Herefordshire holiday programme, is funded by the Department for Education and coordinated by the council's Talk Community team. It operates in collaboration with a diverse array of local organisations, ensuring children have a wealth of free indoor and outdoor activities to choose from throughout the summer break.