Dear Parents/ Guardians,

The YCA in Sandwell is taking part in the Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF), which is a central government initiative that requires all Local Authorities to deliver a programme of inclusive activities including a hot meal over the school holidays.

The YCA has developed a timetable of enriching activities where children will get the opportunity to try new things, work on arts and crafts, cookery and sport as well as receive a lunch meal. Our programme will run from Monday 26^th July – Thursday 19^th August at the Lodge Community Centre.

The holiday programme will be free of charge and open to children aged between 8 – 16 years of age. There are 15 spaces available each week for each age and gender group as shown in the table below.

Due to the high demand priority will be offered to young people who regularly attend YCA services e.g. Arabic school, tuition classes, youth club and previous holiday programmes.

There are 2 conditions which must be completed in order to secure a place:

1. You must complete the enclosed consent form.
2. You must sign up your child online with Sandwell Council Go Play. The web address is as follows: https://app.upshot.org.uk/signup/62b2ae22/

You can scan the QR code using your mobile phone’s camera which will open the above link.

Places will only be confirmed upon both conditions being met. Please ensure that the forms reach the YCA office as soon as possible as places will be given on a first come, first served basis.

If you would like any further information regarding the holiday programme or require support registering online, please do not hesitate to contact Ahmed on 0121-525-3909.

Every week we will be running a challenge for young people aged between 8 – 14 years of age.

In a previous challenge, we have looked at different upcycling methods and made something from nothing. In this week’s challenge, we want you to bring your unwanted empty tin cans to life by making them into that can be used at home such as a pot for pens, flower pot or you can surprise us with a better idea.

Click on the link on the table below to view the fifth challenge in detail:

Every week we will be running a challenge for young people aged between 8 – 14 years of age.

During this unprecedented period of time, many people, particularly the elderly, may start to feel lonely and isolated as they isolate from the community. To help keep their spirits up we want you to write a letter to a neighbour, relative or member of the community to check in on them and to let them know they are not alone promoting a strong sense of togetherness.

Click on the link on the table below to view the fourth challenge in detail: