This December, thousands of children across Middlesbrough will be able to take part in free festive activities as the Bring It On Boro holiday programme returns for the Christmas school holidays.
Running from Saturday 20 December to Sunday 4 January, Bring It On Boro will offer children aged 5 to 16 the chance to enjoy a wide range of activities, from panto trips and visits to Santa’s grotto to sports including football, cheerleading and boxing. Every session includes a free, healthy meal, ensuring children are supported to stay active, social and well during the holidays.
The programme is part of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) scheme, funded by the Labour Government, which has committed hundreds of millions of pounds nationally to tackle holiday hunger and support children’s wellbeing. The Government has recently confirmed a multi-year extension of HAF, giving councils and families greater certainty and stability.
In Middlesbrough, Bring It On Boro is delivered by Mayor Chris Cooke and the Labour Council through the Middlesbrough Priorities Fund. The fund is led by Mayor Cooke, who grew up in care and has made supporting children and young people in Middlesbrough a key priority for the Council. This fund has helped expand the scheme beyond the main holidays, ensuring more consistent support for families throughout the year.
Families who meet eligibility criteria set by the Department for Education and children who receive benefit-related free school meals can book online here, and any other families can also get involved – just call 01642728888 or email holidayfoodandactivities@middlesbrough.gov.uk to book.
Luke Myer MP said:
“Bring It On Boro is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when a Labour Government and a Labour council work together in the interests of children and families. Christmas can be a tough time for many households, and this programme means thousands of local children will have something positive to look forward to – fun activities, new experiences, and a good meal each day. That’s exactly the kind of practical support our community deserves.”
Mayor Chris Cooke said:
“I’m delighted we’ve been able to ensure the programme runs during every school holiday period, but it’s especially important at Christmas. I know how important it is for every child to have somewhere safe to go, something fun to do and a warm, healthy meal. Extending Bring it on Boro means children can enjoy more incredible experiences and families can rely on that extra bit of help when they need it most.”