Initiative to tackle inequality reaches 100,000 participation and meals milestone

23/07/24

A project backed by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils has reached an important milestone.

An initiative, backed by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, designed to encourage young people to exercise and enjoy outdoor activities has reached an important milestone.

The Explore Outdoor project, operated by Abbeycroft, marked its tenth birthday with an event at West Stow Saxon Village and celebrated reaching 100,000 participants as well as 100,000 meals provided.

When children and families take part in the initiative, they can experience a range of different activities, such as family park cooking sessions, the reducing isolation with food project, adventure days, teen challenges, and beyond.

In Babergh and Mid Suffolk, Explore Outdoor activities are a recurring feature of the free, government-funded, Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme. The councils work in partnership with Abbeycroft to provide families with the opportunity to experience exciting days out that don't break the bank.

Reocgnising the landmark achievement, Cllr Daniel Potter, Babergh District Council cabinet member for thriving communities, said:

“On behalf of everyone at Babergh District Council, I would like to say congratulations to Abbeycroft for reaching this impressive milestone.

"Helping our residents to live healthy and active lives is a top priority for us, so we are proud to work in partnership with Abbeycroft and support the Explore Outdoor initiative.”

Cllr Tim Weller, cabinet member for Environment, Culture and Wellbeing, said:

“These activities make a big difference to young people’s lives – helping them experience new activities, learn additional skills, and boost confidence. It’s a great programme which captures how the great outdoors can have such a positive impact on wellbeing.”

Warren Smyth, Abbeycroft’s chief executive said:

“What an incredible achievement this is from the whole team. Whilst the statistics from this initiative are impressive, you have to meet the individuals and families that we work with to truly see the impact of its success.

"Much of our work now is around health and wellbeing and tackling inequalities so this initiative aligns perfectly to our mantra to help people live, healthy, active lives."

To find out more about Abbeycroft’s outdoor programmes this summer, visit the Abbeycroft website. For information about the Holiday Activity and Food programme in the districts, visit the Babergh District Council or Mid Suffolk District Council websites.