Youngsters and their families are set to benefit from a wide range of free and low-cost sport and activity sessions during the school summer holidays this year.

Falkirk Council has secured £355,000 in one-off funding from the Scottish Government, via sportscotland, to deliver a local “Summer of Sport” programme.

The funding will support thousands of places across holiday activities, community programmes, sports clubs and larger events. Some projects will also combine activities with food provision, helping families during the school break.

Community groups, clubs and organisations will receive support to run sessions over the summer and into the October holidays, building on work already delivered through the Falkirk School Food and Activities Fund.

There will be plenty of activities for youngsters to take part in over the school summer break (Picture: Submitted)

placeholder image — There will be plenty of activities for youngsters to take part in over the school summer break (Picture: Submitted)

Council-run sessions will also expand this year, with more than 3000 subsidised places planned including multisport camps and individual activities such as basketball, tennis, gymnastics and swimming.

Free places will be available for young people who need additional support, with meals and snacks included.

Local sports clubs are also set to benefit, with grant funding available to help them run taster sessions and introductory activities.

Alongside regular sessions, the programme will feature larger events, including the Falkirk Games for P7 pupils and a family-focused event later in the summer.

A new “Sport Passport” scheme is also being developed, allowing children to collect stamps for taking part in activities, with rewards such as a free family swim.

Some longer-term projects are also being developed, including adaptive bikes at the Helix to improve access for people with disabilities, new self-led walking routes in parks such as the Helix and Callendar Park, and a Coach Academy aimed at supporting young people into coaching while strengthening local clubs.

Falkirk Council leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: “We know that the school holidays can be a difficult time for some households, particularly with the added pressure of childcare and food costs. We hope this programme will make a real difference over the summer months.

“It’s also important that this isn’t just a short-term boost. By investing in our clubs, supporting young coaches and improving access to facilities and outdoor spaces, we’re helping to create more opportunities for people to stay active and involved in sport all year round.”

Full details are available from the Falkirk Leisure and Culture website.