10.09.22

Back to school with a bang after summer of fun with Life Leisure

Stockport parents have praised a summer camp hosted by Life Leisure which provides children with healthy meals and fun activities during the holidays.

Each year the Stockport leisure provider runs special summer camps at Brinnington Park, Avondale, Dialstone and Stockport Sports Village, as part of the Department of Education’s Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme to provide healthy food and enriching activities to all children.

Among around a hundred youngsters taking part were siblings Chloe, 11, Isla, eight, and five-year-old Leo, who return to the camp each year. Their dad Dave Needham, who works full time, said it’s a fantastic resource for all families in Stockport.

He said: “Its brilliant. Our kids have been coming a few years now and it’s something they always look forward to. It’s an outlet for them to go and play, enjoy themselves and make new friends.

“The staff are amazing – they have great patience. I think it takes a special kind of someone to look after kids and keep coming up with new ideas to keep them entertained and in line!”

Dave, who lives in Offerton, added: “Lots of parents have to go out and work over the summer holidays so it’s reassuring to know that their children are safe and being fed, and that you don’t have to worry about them. For a lot of parents, it takes away the burden of finding things for them to do, and of sourcing childcare.”

Children and young people who are entitled to benefits-related free school meals were prioritised for places on the camps which hosted more than 2,000 sessions over the Summer. Funded places were also awarded to children and young people from disadvantaged areas, classed as vulnerable, and those with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities.

Almost 200 children took part in the sessions run by Life Leisure’s Active Communities Team, with qualified coaches Ethan Pietkiewicz, Mason Barry and Bethany Platt coming up with a range of activities.

The summer events also included a specific camp aimed at children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Ross McGuigan, Active Communities Manager from Life Leisure, said: “With the rise in the cost of living and more financial pressure on families than ever before, these camps have been a lifeline for lots of families in the area.

“Staff at Life Leisure look forward to the HAF camps as much as the children! It’s part of our role to show children how being active is fun, and working with so many children over the summer holidays really does make us feel proud. We already can’t wait for next year!”

The camps were support by Cracking Good Food, who supplied the meals, together with the Manchester United Foundation and Stockport County Community Foundation, who supported the activities alongside Life Leisure’s Activity Communities Team.

Back to News

Other News

18.03.24

Embracing everyday movement

Read More
05.03.24

The key to leading a healthier, more active life

Read More
20.02.24

Why we should all love being active

Read More
12.02.24

Embrace self-love this Valentines Day

Read More
06.02.24

Why Padel is one of the world’s fastest growing sports

Read More
18.01.24

A guide to overcoming gym anxiety

Read More
02.01.24

Don’t sweat, just smile

Read More
19.12.23

Celebrating the joy of physical activity this holiday season

Read More
12.12.23

How swimming can nurture the body and mind

Read More
21.11.23

Embrace the chill: Cold season self-care tips

Read More
16.11.23

Prioritising children’s health and wellbeing

Read More
01.11.23

How exercise can be a powerful form of self-care

Read More
31.10.23

Bridging the gap for families in Stockport

Read More
24.10.23

5 fun and active half-term activities

Read More
05.10.23

Simplify your nutrition with 5-ingredient, 5-step recipes

Read More
02.10.23

5 simple ways to focus on yourself

Read More
28.09.23

Raising funds and spirits for Mind

Read More
26.09.23

The power of togetherness

Read More
13.09.23

National Fitness Day: Your Path to a Healthier You

Read More
22.08.23

Riding the Wave of Excitement: Celebrating the Tour of Britain Race

Read More
09.08.23

Staying fit and active during summer: Tips for motivation

Read More
01.08.23

Life Leisure: More than just a workout

Read More
27.07.23

Train #BetterTogether this International Day of Friendship

Read More
05.07.23

Why being active is even #BetterTogether

Read More
12.06.23

Men’s health week: Men’s health and the internet

Read More
07.06.23

Beginners guide to running

Read More
15.05.23

Mental Health Awareness Week

Read More
01.05.23

Your fitness, your choice

Read More
25.04.23

Spring into fitness

Read More
11.04.23

What’s your choice?

Read More
14.03.23

Spring clean your health!

Read More
13.02.23

Take care of ‘Number One’ this Valentines

Read More
07.02.23

Cycle scheme will provide wheels for all

Read More
01.01.23

Don’t Sweat, Just Smile

Read More
20.02.24

Walking for wellness

Read More
08.02.24

Life Leisure is unexpected haven for Cheadle widower

Read More