October half-term: supporting children & families amidst Covid-19

Following the Scottish Government’s Covid-19 restrictions announced last week, Big Hearts reveals new plans for the October school holidays in Edinburgh.

Our charity reviewed activity plans to adhere to safety measures and avoid travel by public transport.

During the half-term break, we will focus on a tailored approach to ensure vulnerable young people and their families still get the chance to maintain social connections and reduce financial insecurities.

We are grateful to The North British Distillery and Cash for Kids for their continued funding!

– School pupils living in low income households will receive a special School’s Out parcel for ‘A night in’ with fresh pizzas, pop-corn and family movies to be enjoyed safely from home. Over 140 children and adults living in the Tynecastle cluster have been identified through local schools and referral agencies.

– Around 16 families involved in Big Hearts’ Kinship Care programme will be allocated online-shopping vouchers for the holidays. These will help meet the carers’ biggest needs, including buying warm clothes, food essentials or activities to entertain the children at home over the school break.

– Five young people in Kinship Care will get to attend a week of Hearts’ football coaching. Big Hearts secured free places at the ever-popular Club’s holiday football courses, which will be back on the Stadium’s community pitch from 19th October.

Big Hearts’ helplines remain open to the public for any questions and advice on local support services.

Community Helpline: 0131 603 4928 (10am-4pm, Monday to Friday)

Kinship Care Helpline: 0131 603 4927 (10am-4pm, Monday to Thursday)