Children and young people are being helped to recover from the pandemic by taking part in a range of sporting, cultural and play based activities this summer.
The Summer of Fun has been incredibly popular with activities across Wales oversubscribed. The multimillion pound initiative is part of a suite of measures designed to help children and young people aged between 0 and 25 to recover from the pandemic.
The free events, which run until 30th September, have been providing leisure, recreational, sporting and cultural activities to support the social, emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of children and young people.
Yesterday Julie Morgan,the Deputy Minister for Social Services, visited three Summer of Fun events taking place across Rhondda Cynon Taf including the Welsh Play Roadshow at Mount Pleasant Park, Family Fun Time in Porth and the YEPS Turn Up and Play event in Tonyrefail. The events for children and young people of all ages with opportunities ranging from games, arts and crafts, and bouncy castles, to areas for young people to catch up with friends and meet youth workers.
Speaking whilst visiting three events held in Rhondda Cynon Taf the Deputy Minister for Social Services, Julie Morgan said:
“Having missed opportunities over the last 18 months to socialise and play with friends and peers I am delighted to see how much children and young people are enjoying the all the different activities taking place through the Summer of Fun.
“It is vitally important that we protect and build the wellbeing, physical and emotional health of our children and young people. The events I have visited today are fantastic examples of how we can support these needs and help them build confidence, reengage with learning and education, and strive to reach their full potential.
“I thank everyone who has helped make the Summer of Fun the success it has been.”
Councillor Christina Leyshon, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“I was delighted to accompany the Deputy Social Services Minister around the Summer of Fun projects in our County Borough.
“The pandemic, and the restrictions this placed upon us, has had a profound effect on all of our lives, with children and young people among those most severely affected.
“They have been unable to attend school for long periods, which can have a significant impact on social development and activity levels as well as learning. Many have also been unable to meet up in person or socialise with family and friends.
“Loneliness and social isolation have been real problems over the last 18 months and the Summer of Fun scheme is supporting our children and young people, allowing them to reconnect with each other and the outside world through a range of exciting activities.”
