OUR 2026 EASTER HOLIDAY PROGRAMME
Introduction
Over the Easter holidays, we welcomed children and young people from our community into a programme full of activity, support, and connection. For many families, school holidays can be a difficult time, with added pressure around food, childcare, and keeping children engaged. Our aim was simple. To make sure every child had a safe place to go, good food to eat, and something positive to be part of.
Everything we offered was completely free, removing financial barriers and making sure everyone could take part.
What we Achieved
This Easter, we saw real impact across our communities.
311 children and young people took part
59 sessions were delivered
264 hours of activities were provided
1743 breakfasts and 1743 lunches were served
82 hours of support were given by our volunteers
These numbers tell part of the story, but what matters most is the experience behind them.
Bannatyne House
Bannatyne House was at the heart of our Easter programme for primary-aged children. Each day, children were welcomed with breakfast, followed by a full day of activities and a nutritious lunch, with snacks available throughout. This helped make sure everyone was well fed and ready to take part.
The programme offered a wide mix of activities including arts and crafts, games, dance, and free play. Children had the chance to get creative, work together, and build confidence in a relaxed and supportive setting. There was also lots of time spent outdoors, using the allotment and games space to explore nature, stay active, and enjoy fresh air.
Trips to Ayr Beach and Heads of Ayr Farm Park were a real highlight. These gave children the chance to experience something new, spend time together, and create special memories during the holidays.
We also made sure the space worked for everyone. With additional support available and a dedicated quiet sensory space, children with different needs could feel comfortable and fully included in the programme.
School Holiday Programmes
Across our local secondary schools, young people took part in a varied programme designed to keep them active, supported, and connected during the holidays. Alongside activities, each session included access to meals, helping to reduce pressure at home and making it easier for young people to attend regularly.
Activities included sports, cooking, arts and crafts, workshops, and trips. These sessions gave young people the chance to try new things, learn practical skills, and spend time with their peers in a safe and familiar environment.
Just as important was the opportunity to stay connected with our dedicated Youth Workers and Family Liaison officers. These relationships mean young people have trusted adults to turn to, helping them feel supported both during the holidays and beyond.
Our Volunteers
Our volunteers played a key role in bringing the programme to life. Eight volunteers contributed their time across the Easter holidays, supporting activities, trips, and food provision, including helping to prepare and serve meals.
Their support helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere across all of our sessions. Having extra people on hand meant more interaction, more support, and a better experience for the children and young people attending.
Looking Back
This Easter, children and young people had access to good food, safe spaces, and meaningful experiences. They built confidence, made new friends, and enjoyed opportunities they may not otherwise have had.
We’re incredibly grateful to our staff, volunteers, and partners who made this programme possible, helping to create a positive and supportive holiday for everyone involved.
Want to learn more? Read the full report here!