22 August 2023

Fun in the sun for Summer in the City’s final week

Hundreds of children and young people from across H&F have enjoyed a fifth week of free fun and food.

Categories:
Children and young people

Cllr Alex Sanderson, H&F Cabinet Member for Children and Education, (far right) with residents at Summer in the City's 2023 launch event

Hundreds of children and young people from across Hammersmith & Fulham have enjoyed a fifth week of free fun and food.

The final week of H&F's Summer in the City holiday programme included football sessions at Jolof Sports Club, cooking at Sands End Adventure Playground and STEM activities with BubbleSqueakEat.

Jampacked days

Young people aged 13 to 25 filled their week at HF Mencap with art, drama, sports, trips out and, most importantly, a free lunch every day.

"I hate not being at school," explained Yaseen, 19. "So, the summer programme is the next best thing. I can have a laugh with my friends and enjoy lunch with them. I really love food, that's my favourite part of the day."

Throughout Summer in the City, HF Mencap personalised their timetable of activities, basing it on the preferences and needs of those attending.

Children enjoying Art in the Park at Summer in the City 2023

"I like all the activities, dancing, sailing, bowling, keep fit, cinema, museums," added Olie, 18. "I love the summer holiday programme, including the food and ice creams."

Sam, 15, agreed:

"I love coming because we go out to different places, and I don't like sitting still ever. I like to be on the move and seeing different things. The staff make me feel welcome and I like to be with other young people too."

The Shepherds Bush based charity provides a range of services and support for residents with learning disabilities, their families and carers.

"It is really noticeable how much the young people develop their social skills and confidence during the programme," said volunteer Josie. "It's a fantastic thing to see, and I think these activities are extremely important."