Swindon Borough Council has launched its Summer in Swindon campaign, bringing together events, attractions and support services to help families enjoy the holidays and access financial assistance where needed.
Children aged five to 15 will be able to travel on buses for free throughout August, making it easier for families to visit attractions and activities across the borough.
Among the activities on offer are the Summer Reading Challenge in Swindon’s libraries, free family fun at Coate Water Splash Park and a programme of events at Lydiard Park, including outdoor cinema screenings, theatre performances, the Garden Party and Mad4Animals.
Children can also visit Lydiard House Museum and STEAM Museum for £1 as part of the Kids for a Quid scheme.
Signal Festival returns from Thursday 24 July to Friday 1 August, with more than 40 arts and cultural events celebrating the creativity of Swindon’s young people.
Families are also being encouraged to enjoy Swindon’s parks, country parks and woodlands, with nature trails, wildlife spotting and picnic areas providing free days out during the summer.
The council is also highlighting the support available for households finding the school holidays financially challenging.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will once again provide eligible children receiving benefits-related free school meals with funded holiday clubs, activities and meals over the summer.
Affordable food is available through Haven Pantry, Parks Pantry and Penhill Pantry, while the Gorse Hill Baptist Church Community Fridge continues to offer free surplus food without the need for a referral.
Residents can also seek advice and support at Community Hubs and Welcome Spaces, including the new hub at Park Library and facilities at Central Library.
Anyone worried about food, childcare costs or other financial pressures can also access guidance through Citizens Advice, alongside information about the council’s Crisis and Resilience Fund.
Councillor Matt Hinton, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Services, said:
“Summer should be a time for children and families to enjoy spending time together, and there is an incredible range of activities taking place across Swindon over the coming weeks.
“We’re fortunate to have excellent parks, libraries, museums and community spaces offering free and affordable ways for families to have fun, learn something new and explore their local area.
“We also recognise that the school holidays can create additional financial pressures for some households. That’s why we’re working with local partners to ensure support is available, whether that’s help with food, childcare costs, financial advice or holiday activities.”
More information about events, activities, support services and eligibility is available on the council’s Summer in Swindon webpage.
