Watch: South Tyneside Council provide free activities for those that struggle financially

The holiday clubs are funded by the Department For Education and give children aged between 5 and 16 a chance to enjoy some free festive activities whilst receiving a free meal.

Those who received free school meals during term time or those that are experiencing financial hardship are eligible to join in during this festive season.

Councillor Ellison added that he thinks the scheme will make a big difference to those that need it.

Just some the activities on offer to those that are eligible are trips to go ice skating and a visit to the Customs House Panto.

The activities give kids a chance to try something new and enriching that they may not have been able to access with their families on their own.

Other councils across the North East have also used the funding from the government to create similar activities for those that need it.

Councillor Adam Ellison said that he encourages other local authorities to help kids in the North East that need extra support during the school holidays.

Packs have also been created for those that may not be able to leave their home.

The scheme runs right into the new year and activities can be booked through the South Tyneside Council website.