Renfrewshire’s Summer of Fun delivers thousands of smiles

Thousands of young people and families across Renfrewshire enjoyed a summer packed with free activities, healthy meals, and unforgettable experiences thanks to Renfrewshire Council’s Summer of Fun programme. 

An evaluation report found that the programme supported almost 9,000 people in Renfrewshire, broadening access to free or low-cost activities

Now it its third year, the programme is funded through the Council’s Fairer Renfrewshire fund, which allocated £100,000 to support summer activities for low-income families.   

This year saw the return of the hugely popular summer activity camps, with more than 500 places each week across Ferguslie, Foxbar, Gallowhill, Johnstone, Linwood and Renfrew. Delivered by partners Street Stuff, the camps provided a wide range of activities including football, basketball, hockey, dance, arts and crafts, and more. Interactive workshops on online safety and fire awareness were held by Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue.  

Each session included a free healthy lunch and was held during normal school hours to support families with childcare costs and help keep young people active and well-nourished over the summer. 

In addition to the summer camps, funding was also given to community groups and organisations to deliver free summer activities for families, with a focus on being accessible to those who might not usually take part in other holiday programmes. 

Families across Renfrewshire enjoyed a wide range of inclusive activities designed to support learning, play, and connection. Free play and reading activities were delivered by OneRen and the mobile library Skoobmobile, which also provided free toys thanks to programme funding.  

Adult and Family Learning classes supported 61 families with weekly classes and outings, from outdoor fun, baking, and English language support for those where English isn’t their first language.  

Day trips proved especially popular, giving families the chance to explore beyond their local area and make lasting memories at no cost. Excursions included visits to Blair Drummond Safari Park, Millport, Loch Lomond Sealife Centre, Glasgow Science Centre, and the beaches at Ayr and Troon — offering fun, educational experiences that many families might not otherwise have been able to access. 

Just Dive In, who provided sensory-aware swim sessions for families who need a bit more support, said: “We saw children who had never entered a pool finally relax and play. We saw carers cry with relief. We saw families laugh together for the first time in weeks. It wasn’t just swimming — it was respite, it was inclusion, it was connection.  

“Thank you for trusting small, grassroots organisations like ours. With this kind of funding, we can do what we do best: meet families where they are and lift them, together.” 

Stronger Communities Glenburn, who received funding to deliver a variety of summer activities for families, said: “The funding allowed us to provide free, accessible activities for families who really benefited from them. Offering a mix of activities such as cinema trips, soft play, and arts & crafts gave children plenty of choice and kept them engaged.  

“Parents appreciated the chance to spend quality time with their children, while children enjoyed trying new things, making friends, and having fun in a safe and supportive environment.” 

Erskine Arts, who delivered workshops in art, music production and performing for different age groups, said: “It makes a huge difference to be able to make offers like this free to all. It removes any stigma and helps to attract harder to reach people who may feel like they have barriers to creative access.  

“It’s nice to know that you are part of a wider Renfrewshire collective providing free summer activities.” 

Jacqueline Cameron, Depute Leader for Renfrewshire Council and Chair of the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel, said: “This summer’s programme was a fantastic example of what we can achieve through strong partnerships and collective effort. By working closely with local organisations and listening to our communities, we’ve been able to deliver a wide range of activities that truly reflect the needs of families across Renfrewshire. 

“Funding decisions are made carefully to ensure activities are inclusive, accessible, and reach the families who will benefit most. From creative workshops to day trips and sports, there was something for everyone — and the feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive. 

“I want to thank all our partners and community organisations whose dedication and creativity made this possible. Their work ensured every child had the chance to enjoy their summer, regardless of their circumstances.”