Children and young people most impacted by Covid will be supported by £20 million to create opportunities to socialise, play and ‘reconnect’ this summer.
Councils will receive £15 million and up to £5 million has been allocated to a coalition of 18 national partners to further strengthen and build on existing summer provision in addition to what is usually on offer.
The support provided by councils will specifically target those aged up to 25 from low income households who may otherwise struggle to access such experiences during the holidays.
Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Scotland’s children and young people have experienced significant disruption to all aspects of their lives as a result of Covid-19, including their wellbeing; education and social connections. They have told us that their mental health was a primary concern as a result of the pandemic and that they need a range of activity to help them reconnect with their peers and friends.
“We have listened and taken action. The £20 million of funding will support children, young people, their families and carers to enjoy the summer. Through our partners – local authorities as well as our national organisations – the summer activity will focus on mental health and well-being of our children and young people whose lives have been impacted by Covid.”
Councillor Stephen McCabe, COSLA Children and Young People’s Spokesperson said: “Over the past year children and young people have shown such resilience as the pandemic has limited many of the activities and support usually open to them.
“We are pleased that this additional funding will allow local authorities to build on their own regular summer programmes for children and young people and boost opportunities for those who have faced the greatest challenges due to COVID-19.
“Councils will provide a range of activities depending on local needs and guided by what children and young people themselves say will make a difference.”
