West Dunbartonshire Council has committed £100,000 to support SHINE Holiday projects again this year.
It is widely recognised that holiday periods add to the stress of poverty for some families and results in less access to food and social activity for them than their peers. Foodbanks also report increased demand during holiday periods. In 2019 West Dunbartonshire Council established a Holiday Hunger Fund ‘SHINE’ to address holiday hunger in our communities. SHINE (School Holidays Involve Nurture & Engage) works with local organisations and groups to increase provision of free social activities for school children over holiday periods including breakfast and lunch clubs.
To help reduce these inequalities the Council has committed £100,000 per annum to the SHINE Fund to enable groups in our communities to apply for money to establish new provision in areas where there is unmet need. In 2022 over 10,000 children, young people and families participated in 18 SHINE initiatives across the authority.
SUMMER SHINE 25 is a 5 week summer activity programme for all children and young people living in West Dunbartonshire. Working with our community partners West Dunbartonshire Council aims to deliver a diverse range of free activities that will bring our children, young people and families together for some much needed fun and enjoyment.
West Dunbartonshire Council is now inviting organisations to apply for SUMMER SHINE 2025 funding to provide free holiday activities during the school summer holidays.
Summer - Monday 7 July - Friday 8 August 2025
Who can apply?
SHINE funding is available to not-for-profit, constituted groups, providing free activities or services to children/young people in West Dunbartonshire.
What can i apply for?
Any activities for children and families; these could include arts, sports, games, play, breakfast/lunch clubs. Activities and meals funded by this grant must be provided to children free of charge. In applying for this funding, we require you to identify who you will target and that you will be inclusive to all children and young people. Only projects taking place in West Dunbartonshire are eligible.
How much can I apply for?
There is no lower or upper limit; however our aim is to encourage a wide range of accessible and inclusive projects across our communities.
How do I apply?
You need to complete an official SHINE 2025 grant application form.
This and further information can be provided by contacting:
education.centralregistry@west-dunbarton.gov.uk
All funded projects require to adhere to funding guidelines and submit a post project evaluation form on completion. A panel of Council Officers will review applications with a view to ensuring access across the authority during the school summer holidays. If the panel are satisfied applications meet the criteria, then the funding will be allocated with a view of making a fair spread offering best value.
When can i apply?
Deadline for applications is: Wednesday 30th April 2025
We aim to be able to advise successful applicants of the funding decision by Friday 23rd May 2025