Ready Steady Worcestershire works with YMCA to keep boredom at bay this summer

The programme has also been on hand to make sure children and families, who need a helping hand to access a healthy nutritious meal receive it.

 One of the providers working hard in this district to ensure children have been having some holiday fun is YMCA Worcestershire.

There have been lots of activity sessions available to keep boredom at bay and help children try something new including street dance, circus skills, arts and crafts, multi sports, ninja warrior, performance arts and graffiti workshops.

 The children have also been getting out and about with trips to West Midlands Safari Park, Go Ape, Blackwell Activity Centre, Lazer Combat, bowling and attended themed arts, sports and science days ran by University of Worcester. They have also been  learning about the importance of having healthy food and snacks.

Community murals have also been created with local residents in Abbeydale and Church Hill areas of Redditch.

These were designed with the young people, along with suggestions from the local community. The Abbeydale mural has become a true living memorial; as it includes the names of past loved ones of community members and the young people involved and will continue to be added to throughout the coming years.

In partnership with YMCA Worcestershire NCS Programme, the Redditch programmes were finished with a community charity ‘Fete of Fun’ attended by parents and siblings of the young people attending as well as local Abbeydale residents.

Young and older generations really came together and many stories were shared. The event also managed to raise over £450  for Redditch Night Stop, which is a local project for young people experiencing homelessness.

 Councillor Marcus Hart, Cabinet Member for Education said: “I’d like to thank YMCA Worcestershire for their contribution to the Ready Steady Worcestershire programme. It’s been great to hear so many stories of new experiences and local communities coming together and creating a lasting legacy. The programme has been about keeping boredom at bay and allowing children to learn something new this summer, and our whole Ready Steady Worcestershire team can be really proud of how the programme has come together. ”

The Summer Holiday Activities Programme is aimed at children aged between 5 to 15 with something for everyone, please follow the hashtag #HAF2021 for more updates.