The Bureau: Tackling Social Isolation

Based in Gamesley, a rural town outside of Glossop, The Bureau operates a holiday programme for ages 5-16 which aims to tackle social isolation for children and young people most in need of support.

To ensure the holiday club reaches as many eligible children as possible, The Bureau works in partnership with local schools to identify eligible children and young people and then contact the parents directly to offer available spaces. To maintain attendance rates, The Bureau also send daily notifications, reminding parents of their booking.

“Parents’ lives can sometimes be chaotic and stressful and many struggle with the changes in routine outside term-time. Some parents also suffer from mental health complications or addiction, making holiday clubs a vital support system for children and young people during the school holidays.” The Bureau

Many of the children who attend the holiday club are diagnosed with SEND or are awaiting a SEND diagnosis, therefore both indoor and outdoor activities have been designed to support varying interests, activity levels and support needs. To ensure the children are offered the opportunity to try new things, the holiday programmes are often joined by external activity leaders who specialise in areas such as boxing, street art, skateboarding and nature.

“The club provides an opportunity for socialisation, for some young people who would otherwise be sitting in their bedrooms on games consoles. It also has given them new skills including art techniques, knife/cookery skills, knitting and other needlework-type skills, along with the chance to have fun and learn about nature/foraging and the local countryside and footpath networks.” The Bureau

“As a single mum to a young daughter, the school holidays can be particularly challenging. While I love spending time with my daughter, the six-week summer break is a long period to manage alone, balancing work, parenting and my own well-being. The holiday club at Gamesley has been a vital source of support for us both. Without this club, the holidays would be significantly harder, both emotionally and practically.” Parent