Monmouthshire County Council is delighted to announce that MonLife, the council’s Sport, Play and Community team, has been recognised at the prestigious Food and Fun 10-Year Celebratory Awards. 

The awards, hosted by the Welsh Local Government Association, were held to mark a decade of the Food and Fun School Holiday Enrichment Programme, celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals, organisations, and partnerships in supporting children and families across Wales during the school summer holidays.

MonLife, which has coordinated the Food and Fun programme in Monmouthshire for the past five years, was shortlisted for the Sport Coach Award, recognising organisations that deliver physical activity in innovative ways, ensuring every child’s needs are at the heart of planning.

Thanks to the dedication and collaboration of the Sport, Play and Community team, MonLife was named the winner of the Sport Coach Award.

The Food and Fun programme in Monmouthshire is built on a robust hub model, giving children and young people the opportunity to attend three weeks of summer holiday activities. Each day, participants receive a nutritious breakfast and hot lunch, alongside a varied programme of sports, play, and enrichment activities. This approach ensures children not only stay active and engaged, but also benefit from healthy meals during the holidays.

Further recognition went to Amanda Davies, Site Lead for Thornwell Primary School in Chepstow, who was named runner-up for the Outstanding Contribution Award. Amanda, who began as a Holiday Site Assistant, has been a passionate advocate for the Food and Fun programme since its inception. Her commitment and expertise have made a significant impact on the community.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, Cllr Angela Sandles, said: “I was absolutely delighted to attend and to see our amazing MonLife team recognised at the WLGA Food and Fun 10 Year Celebratory Awards in Cardiff, winning the Sports Coach Award for their fantastic work encouraging children and young people to get active and enjoy sport.”

“I’m also so proud of Amanda Davies, who leads Thornwell School’s Food and Fun programme in Chepstow and was named runner-up for the Outstanding Contribution Award. Amanda’s passion and commitment to the Food and Fun scheme shines through in everything she does, she’s a true champion for the positive difference it makes to our young people and their families.”