Children’s Recreation Fund

We are all aware of the importance of regular physical activity for our health and well-being, but the benefits to children and young people are especially significant during their formative years. Studies have shown that playing sports and participating in regular physical activity reduces the risk of obesity in children, promotes mental health by reducing anxiety and stress, and gives them a head start on lifelong fitness.

Other recreational activities such as drama/performing arts, arts & crafts, scouts, and music/singing lessons are also a great way for children to develop important life skills, grow in confidence while helping to maintain their emotional wellbeing.

The benefits of all forms of recreation are clear but the cost to participate can be a huge challenge for families struggling on a limited income. The cost of equipment and membership fees for clubs and activities can be unaffordable, especially for families with many children to look after.

NewstrAid’s Help for Hobbies scheme supports newstrade families by helping them meet the costs associated with their children’s hobbies and recreational activities so that they can make the most of their leisure time and have fun!

What can be funded:

• Annual subscription and membership fees for sports, arts and leisure clubs
• Competition entry fees
• Equipment and clothing needed for recreational activities eg sports footwear, kits, costumes, etc
• Membership fees for groups such as Beavers, Cubs, Girl Guides, Scouts, Sea Cadets
• After school Lessons in sports, arts, crafts, martial arts, music, drama etc
• Summer Camps or Holiday Clubs
• School Trips
• Equipment that enhances physical fitness such as bikes/trikes/trampolines

Please note, we are unable to provide funding for gaming activities, including the purchase of consoles, discs or downloads.

Eligibility:
All applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

1. Live in the UK
2. Work or have worked directly in sales/circulation/distribution for a minimum of 2 years, full time
3. Live at the same address as the dependent child/children for which funding is being applied for
4. Be in receipt of Child Benefit for the relevant child/children for which funding is being applied for
5. Have less than £6,000 in household savings
6. Be in receipt one of the following state benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Employment & Support Allowance
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income Related Employment Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Housing Benefit
• Pension Credit

Just one application can be made per child per year up to a max of £250 per child. Each application will be assessed individually, and awards made at the discretion of the Welfare Committee. Applicants will be asked to complete an application form and submit evidence to support their application such as bank statements and letters confirming state benefits awarded. Evidence of costs will also be required.

For more information call us FREE on 0800 917 8616 or email: helpforhobbies@newstraid.org.uk

Download the Help for Hobbies flyer

Download the Help for Hobbies Application form (print version)

Download the Help for Hobbies electronic Application form