The votes are in – here are 50 top tips for your little trips…

Hertfordshire County Council has put together a big list of no cost or low cost activities in our county, as voted for by Hertfordshire residents, providing a whole world of wonder for children and their parents.

We understand that we all need to make the most of every penny at the moment and, if you’re finding times particularly tough financially, there is support on hand.

We also understand that keeping your children active and happy this summer really shouldn’t cost the earth – the Fifty Thrifty activities should certainly keep the wheels of your summer turning and your kids spinning with excitement.

And, of course, the county’s libraries, family centres, splash parks and green spaces are there for everyone to enjoy for free. Start in Herts and take your own little trips to make your summer.

Find your next family day out and see how many Fifty Thrifty Adventures you’ll tick off the list at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/littletrips

Advice and support is available from St Albans City and District and a range of local voluntary and community groups to support you during the cost of living crisis - we're here to lend a hand. We have put together a helpful webpage with links to various sources of support. 

Healthy Start helps families on a low-income to buy essential food and milk and provides free vitamins.

If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops.

The Healthy Start scheme has gone digital. Previous voucher recipients must re-apply to continue getting help.

Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply at www.healthystart.nhs.uk

You can also check your eligibility for, and apply, for free school meals for your children using the following link: https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services/schools-and-education/at-school/free-school-meals/free-school-meals.aspx 

Hertfordshire's Moving More online activity finder helps you find thousands of different opportunities to keep you active... and they’re right on your doorstep! The Moving More activity finder has all sorts at your disposal, from one-off sessions and local clubs to community groups.

Looking after our health and wellbeing has become more important than ever and being physically active plays an important role in that! Being active not only allows us to develop and build upon our physical abilities, but it can also introduce us to new people - bringing you together with your community!

As COVID-19 cases increase across the country, it is important to remain vigilant to help reduce the spread. The current advice is to:

Vaccinate: The Covid vaccination can greatly reduce the chance of catching the virus and spreading it to others. There are various vaccination sites open across the county. For more information, visit: COVID-19 vaccinations near you | A Healthier Future

Ventilate: As the hot weather continues and case numbers rise, it is more important than ever to open windows, and keep closed spaces cool and ventilated. Alternatively, meet outside more (keep in shade during the hottest part of the day 11am-3pm).

Mitigate: Wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering in crowded spaces or avoid them and, if you have Covid symptoms, stay at home until you feel better.

For some helpful resources please visit https://bit.ly/3Jl6JQB.

The New Leaf Recovery and Wellbeing College have released their new Autumn timetable for courses starting in September. All courses are offered free of charge and are designed to increase knowledge, understanding and skills to equip people with the tools to live a meaningful, productive and fulfilling life. 

To view their wide range of courses and to book, please see: https://www.newleafcollege.co.uk/Courses/Book-A-Course 

Kick off the new school year with healthy habits at BeeZee Bodies free family weight management groups. New courses start in Camp Nursery and Primary School from 27 September for 12 weeks.

Sign up for free by scanning the QR code on the image or visit www.beezeebodies.com/families

The Hertfordshire Family Centre Service is running FREE Family Fun sessions over the summer period for children aged 0 – 8 years and will also be celebrating National Play Day out and about at community events. All of these events are free to Hertfordshire families.

It will also be running lots of fun sessions to offer a wide range of activities for parents/carers and their children to enjoy and play together. The sessions provide an opportunity for you to meet other local families and get advice and support from the Family Centre team. As well as lots for under 5s to enjoy, there will be activities for siblings up to the age of 8.