Summer with a DIFF’erence offers free summer activities

The Summer with a DIFF’erence programme is back for 2026, offering activities, trips and experiences for young people aged 11-25 throughout the school holidays.

Running across North Cardiff and the rest of the city, the programme includes free and low-cost opportunities designed to help them build confidence, develop new skills, make friends and have fun over the summer.

This year’s programme from Cardiff Youth Service includes:

• Youth club sessions

• Day trips

• Year 11 leavers support

• Creative opportunities

• Youth exchanges

• Community events

• Outdoor experiences

The initiative supports Cardiff Council’s recently launched five-year youth work strategy, Somewhere to go and somewhere to grow, which aims to ensure young people have access to high-quality, inclusive and accessible youth work opportunities across Cardiff.

The council's cabinet member for education, Sarah Merry, said: "Summer with a DIFF’erence continues to be one of the highlights of Cardiff Youth Service’s annual programme, providing young people with exciting opportunities to try new things, build confidence and create lasting memories".

Cardiff Youth Service works with thousands of young people every year, providing support through youth centres, community projects, digital youth work, targeted interventions and outreach services.

The full Summer with a DIFF’erence programme is being updated regularly throughout the summer. Find out more here: School Holidays - Cardiff Youth Service