Wiltshire Council's FUEL programme at risk, after provider closes

The sessions support children from low-income families during school holidays

Author: Aaron HarperPublished 4th Jun 2023

A provider of children’s activities that works with Wiltshire Council has announced it has ceased trading.

Learn By Design were part of the Food, Unity, Energy, Laughter (FUEL) programme and their closure has forced the Council to move rapidly to review what is possible for the summer holidays.

The council is asking community groups to come forward and help provide activities for eligible children. The council are also approaching other providers and are extending that to registered activity providers, schools and other community organisations.

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Public Health said:

“Responding swiftly, we brought together different sections of the council, and have a plan, which we hope will ensure a range of activities at venues this summer.”

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said:

“If we are successful with recruiting providers, we hope to have a range of provision available for the summer. It may be different to previous years but we’re working hard and going out proactively and will keep everyone updated.”

The FUEL programme aims to help young people who are eligible for benefits related free school meals to access activities and nutritious meals for free during school holidays.

It is funded by the Department for Education.

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