Free summer activities are back for eligible children this summer
Families across Nottinghamshire can once again access free holiday activities for eligible children this summer through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
Funded by the Department for Education, the programme gives vulnerable children the chance to take part in fun, engaging activities during the school holidays while also receiving a healthy, nutritious meal at every session.
Places are available for children receiving benefits-related free school meals. Children must also be aged between 5 and 16 years (or 4 if in Reception) and living in Nottinghamshire. Many providers also offer paid-for places for families who do not qualify for funded sessions.
Over 30,000 families in Nottinghamshire are eligible for a funded HAF place, and some may not even be aware. There are over 25,000 places available on HAF, including SEND places. There are over 150 different providers offering a huge range of activities across the county, including schools, sports clubs, and youth centres.
This summer, activities include karting, horse riding, performing arts, football and more. Fully funded places help ensure that the most vulnerable children have a chance to try new and fun activities. The programme is also a key part of safeguarding vulnerable children during the school holidays, helping to reduce isolation, food insecurity and potential risk of harm.
One parent said: “It has been a lifeline. I can see my children come out after having had fun new experiences that I could never afford for them to do. They mix with other children they would normally not get to meet. The staff have been brilliant. I feel that they are looked after.”
Another said: “As a single parent with no immediate family locally, the activities allowed me to continue working and know my son was in a safe environment.”
Councillor Rory Green, the council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:
“Every time this programme runs, we see the difference it makes for children and families in our county. HAF is an amazing programme, offering holiday clubs, healthy food and exciting activity sessions to those who need them most.
“The programme really makes a difference. Young people build confidence, learn important social skills and get to try new things. Many children on the programme also start to engage more with school and find hobbies that keep them active and learning.
“I recall growing up accessing such activities myself. For that I am truly grateful. I believe in these experiences as they left a mark of positive memories, as well as the stability my family needed.
“If your family, or someone you know, would benefit from the programme, I’d encourage you to take a look at the activities on offer near you and book a place. Being free to families, the funded places remove extra financial pressure of children enjoying fun activities from qualified providers.
“There is also dedicated SEND provision, so you can be confident in the care your child gets at these clubs.”
Families can easily check their eligibility and browse activities on the council’s website and booking platform.
Bookings for summer and October half term are open, with places filling up quickly, so book now on the council website!
