A WINDFALL of almost £200,000 will be used to create activities for poorer children across East Renfrewshire this summer.

The cash is being made available by the Scottish Government to support young people who have been hit hardest by the Covid pandemic and help them to socialise and play.

A total of £187,000 has been awarded to East Renfrewshire Council and will specifically target those aged up to 25 from low-income households who may otherwise struggle to access activities during the summer holidays.

Council chiefs said the extra funding will enhance the programme of activities already planned by the East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure Trust in the coming weeks.

A spokesperson told the Barrhead News: “We already work closely with our colleagues in East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure Trust to ensure the summer camps offered across the area are accessible for all. Fully-funded places are offered to pupils meeting certain criteria, providing access to a range of multi-activity and swimming camps.

“A working group is now considering how this additional funding can be used to enhance the offer already in place.”

Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “Children and young people have experienced significant disruption to all aspects of their lives as a result of Covid-19, including their wellbeing, education and social connections.

“They have told us their mental health was a primary concern as a result of the pandemic and they need a range of activities to help them reconnect with their peers and friends.

“We have listened and taken action. This funding will support children, young people, their families and carers to enjoy the summer.”