I’m delighted that, from today, schools across Nottingham will begin handing out e-vouchers for free summer holiday activity clubs.

These are available for all pupils who have free school meals and there will be host of fun things for them to do, along with a healthy lunch, at multiple venues. It’s through a continued partnership with colleagues at Nottingham Forest Community Trust and Trent Bridge Community Trust.

We understand what a difference this can make during the continuing national cost-of-living crisis and, to help further, struggling families will also receive supermarket vouchers to help with the weekly food shop.

More details here…

We’re now into the final two weeks before the Castle reopens to the public on Monday 26 May, which is exciting news for the city.

New admission arrangements mean that an adult pays £12 just once and can then visit all year, while accompanied children aged 15 years old and under go free with each paying adult (up to three children) – making it a great, affordable family-friendly day out.

Advance bookings are now available through the website, and admission will include access to the grounds, Brewhouse Yard Cottages, Robin Hood Adventures and Rebellion Galleries and the Castle museum, unlimited for the 12-month period.

This week is Loneliness Awareness Week and a chance to talk about an important subject which affects many people. 

Anyone can be lonely, at any age or period of their life, and the Marmalade Trust has themed this year as ‘Connection Matters’, encouraging us to find moments in our day to make others feel less alone. 

Nottingham City Libraries offer a wide range of opportunities to connect with people, including board games and chess clubs, knitting, crochet and craft groups, reading groups, English conversation groups and Tots Times.  Find out more here.

Volunteering through libraries is another great way to feel part of the local community and there are a range of roles supporting projects and activities in libraries. Details of current opportunities are on our website.
 
There are also a number of organisations with people who are happy to hear from you. Send a text or email to a sympathetic friend or family member and invite them to meet. If you don't have a friend or family member that you feel you can contact there are many free services available to you. These can be found on the AskLion website - Loneliness | Ask Lion - Nottingham City Directory