Families are missing out on holiday activities and food (HAF) support – how to check if you’re eligible

Since launching in 2020, the holiday activities and food (HAF) programme has helped families across England access healthy meals, fun activities and free childcare during school holidays.

But a new report from the Local Government Association (LGA) warns that many eligible children are still missing out.

What is HAF?

HAF is a government-funded programme offering primary school children from low-income families:

• nutritious meals
• enriching activities
• free childcare places

It runs during the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays, with councils expected to provide the equivalent of six weeks of face-to-face activities each year.

What’s on offer?

Local councils run the programme and activities vary by area but often include:

• sports
• arts and crafts
• cooking and coding
• drama and photography

Children also receive a hot, healthy meal each day and some providers also offer breakfast and dinner.

Who can get a place?

HAF is open to primary school children who receive free school meals during term time.

Councils can also use up to 15% of their funding to support families who aren’t on free school meals but would still benefit.

Since 2022, the programme has delivered 15.6m HAF days. In the 2023-24 academic year alone, almost 5m days of activities and meals were provided across winter, Easter and summer.

Why are some children missing out?

The LGA’s report confirms HAF is making a real difference, improving children’s wellbeing, nutrition, and even future school attendance.

But it also shows that some of the children who need it most aren’t taking part.

Common barriers include:

• transport difficulties
• language barriers
• limited digital access
• low awareness of what’s available
• stigma around accepting support
• poor data-sharing between councils, schools and government, making it harder to identify eligible families

How did HAF start?

In 2020, footballer Marcus Rashford brought nationwide attention to child food poverty.

Over a million people signed his petition urging the government to act, and cross-party pressure helped secure the HAF programme.

His advocacy has ensured many children now have access to safe, supportive holiday spaces they otherwise wouldn’t.

Check your eligibility

If you think your child might qualify, or you simply want to see what’s available, visit your local council’s website to check eligibility and find out how to book a place.

No family should miss out on support that’s there for them.