More than 1,700 children and young people enjoyed fun, food and friendship through Wiltshire Council’s FUEL (Food, Unity, Energy, Laughter) holiday programme this summer.
Funded by the Department for Education (DfE) since 2021, the scheme provides free access to activities, nutritious meals and healthy eating education for children eligible for benefit-related free school meals. Since its launch, more than 100,000 places have been taken up across Wiltshire.
The DfE has now confirmed funding will continue until March 2029, as part of the government’s Best Start in Life mission.
This summer, children took part in sports, animal care, arts, photography and outdoor pursuits, as well as cooking workshops and daily nutritious lunches. Families praised the scheme as “a blessing that has made life so much easier and happier for our children” and “incredibly beneficial… giving structure, routine and an outlet for activity.”
Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Communities, said, “The energy, joy and engagement across our sites has been a real testament to the value of this initiative, not just in providing enriching activities, but in offering vital support to families who need it most. We’re thrilled the DfE has extended funding so even more children can benefit.”
Local groups also partnered with the council to deliver activities. Revolution Performing Arts, who hosted sessions in Malmesbury, Chippenham and Royal Wootton Bassett, described it as “a privilege” to bring inclusive arts activities to young people, with “the food always a big hit.”
In addition, a new free summer swimming pilot offered 711 eligible children ten free swim sessions at Wiltshire Council leisure centres. The scheme will now be reviewed alongside Public Health outcomes.
Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, added, “It’s been great to see so many young people take up the free swimming offer and stay active during the holidays.”
For more details on the FUEL programme, visit FUEL programme – Wiltshire Council.
