Families in Andover and across Hampshire can continue to benefit from free Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) clubs for another 12 months, following a £3.6 million Government grant awarded to Hampshire County Council.
The HAF programme provides free holiday activities and healthy meals for children who receive benefits-linked free school meals (FSM) during Easter, Summer, and Christmas school breaks. In addition, 15 per cent of funded places are allocated to other vulnerable children and young people who may not qualify for FSM but would still benefit from the support.
What is the HAF Programme?
First piloted in 2018 and launched nationally in 2021, the HAF programme was created to support low-income families who may struggle with the cost of food and childcare over the holidays. Across Hampshire, around 150 schemes operate under the programme, helping 8,000 children access fun activities while ensuring they receive nutritious meals outside of school term time.
Councillor Roz Chadd, Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, said:
“We are pleased to receive renewed Government funding, enabling us to continue supporting families most challenged by cost-of-living pressures at a time when these can hit hardest. The HAF programme has a positive impact where it matters most, not only providing nutritious meals and activities but also signposting to additional support services, including health, employment, and education resources.”
Additional Support for Families
Alongside holiday clubs, the funding will also support:
- Hampshire Library Service to deliver holiday activities for children.
- The Short Breaks programme, which provides children with disabilities or additional needs access to safe and fun activities while giving parents and carers some respite.
How to Apply for HAF Places
Parents can now register for HAF places via the Family Information and Services Hub, with applications for Easter 2025 opening during the week commencing 10 March.
For more details on HAF and other cost-of-living support, visit Hampshire County Council’s connect4communities web pages.