Winton Salvation Army free summer events for young people

published on 18 Jul 2025

Summer holidays can be a double-edged sword for young people. While the break from school brings freedom, it can also lead to boredom and loneliness, particularly for children whose parents can’t afford a holiday or to pay for activities.
But this year, The Salvation Army in Winton is stepping in to ensure local young people have a summer filled with fun, connection, and positive memories—all for free.   

Thanks to a generous grant from The Count Zolton Rosco Maria Van Rosenthal Charitable Trust, the Community Centre on 1 Latimer Road, is rolling out a packed summer programme designed to keep young people engaged, well-fed, and Safe.  

Sheridan Hylton, the Youth Worker at The Winton Salvation Army, said; “The sun’s out, and there’s lots of time to burn—we don’t want our young people out there alone with nothing to do. These events give them a safe space to have fun, make friends, and enjoy free meals, because we know summer can be expensive for families. These are not religious meetings, but an all-welcoming series of warm collaborative activities designed to build friendships and spark joy.” 

Winton young people
The planned summer events are a safe space for young people to make friends and have fun.

The three exciting free events for 11–17-year-olds are: 

1. BBQ & Games Night – 13th August, 5pm-7pm   

   Kick off the summer with team games, board games, and a free BBQ meal in the café. A perfect mix of friendly competition and great food!   

 2. Nerf Night – 20th August, 6pm-7pm   

   Grab a Nerf blaster and join the ultimate battle night! Free food will be available to fuel the fun.   

 3. Neon Party – 27th August, 5pm-8pm  

   Glow in the dark with a live DJ, photo booth, games, and free food. It’s the ultimate summer send-off!   

Each event includes a free meal, ensuring no young person goes hungry while having fun. The grant also covers all activities, from Nerf guns to the DJ and photo booth, making these events fully accessible to all.   

Winton Corps Young People 2
"These are not religious meetings, but an all-welcoming series of warm collaborative activities designed to build friendships and spark joy."

Recognising that parents also need support during the summer, The Salvation Army will run its Parent & Toddler Group on Thursday mornings. Additionally, a Kids Club (ages 5-9) will be available during the toddler sessions, giving older siblings a place to play while parents attend with younger children.   

Sheridan said; "We want every family in Winton to know they’re not alone this summer. Whether it’s a hot meal, a fun activity, or just a safe place to be, we’re here to help."   

To book your place contact Sheridan via email: Sheridan.Hylton@salvationarmy.org.uk 

The Salvation Army in Winton is committed to serving the community through practical support, youth engagement, and family programmes, ensuring no one faces hardship alone. It combines recreational, spiritual and practical support to empower youths emphasizing long-term resilience. For example, the Ark Youth Club is a weekly programme that aims to build relationships and provide a safe space for young people. It offers diverse activities like pool, Xbox, Nintendo Wii, cooking, table tennis and film.  

For more information about the work of the Salvation Army among the youths in Winton visit: Winton | The Salvation Army.