Families across Renfrewshire and beyond are set to benefit from a major funding boost to the Extra Time programme, which provides free activity clubs before school, after school, and during school holidays for primary-aged children.
The Scottish Government has increased its investment to £5.5 million, expanding the programme to support even more families on low incomes. This funding increase will see the number of participating football clubs and trusts grow from 31 to 53, delivering services to around 5,000 children and their families.
On a visit to the St Mirren Charitable Foundation’s Extra Time service at Kirklandneuk Primary School in Renfrew, Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville met with families and staff to hear first-hand how the programme is enabling parents to access work or training, increase their working hours, or benefit from vital respite.
The 2025 Extra Time Evaluation Report, published this month by the Scottish FA, highlights the programme’s impact - not just for families, but in helping to deliver key Scottish Government priorities like growing the economy and tackling child poverty.
Commenting on the increased funding, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don-Innes, said:
“The Extra Time programme is helping us better understand how before-school, after-school, and holiday clubs can support families on low incomes. These services don’t just offer children a safe and engaging environment - they help parents into work, training or study, or simply provide them with much-needed respite.
“By increasing investment by £1.5 million to £5.5 million, the Scottish Government is expanding this national programme, ensuring more children and families can access the support they need, including right here in Renfrewshire.
“The evaluation clearly shows that Extra Time supports improved school attendance and attainment, addresses food insecurity, and boosts children’s health and wellbeing - helping us to build a fairer Scotland for everyone.”
Ian Maxwell, Chief Executive of the Scottish Football Association, said:
"The announcement of increased funding for the Extra Time programme is a significant boost, and testament to the success of the initiative and the impact it continues to have on families across the country.
“While this may be a football-based programme, with obvious health and education benefits to children who participate, the positive effects of Extra Time are felt throughout the entire family and it is another example of how the power of football makes a tangible difference across Scotland.
"We are grateful to the Scottish Government for this additional investment which will allow clubs to continue to bring Extra Time to life. It's a hugely worthwhile programme and something we’re delighted to be involved in.”