BHCC MAH Holiday Activity and Food Programme

Descriptions

Funded by the Department for Education (DfE), HAF offers enriching activities and nutritious meals to children and young people, aged four to 16, who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals (FSM). DfE guidance can be found here. School holidays are recognised as a pressure point for some families because of increased costs (such as food and childcare) and reduced incomes. For some children that can lead to a holiday experience gap, with children from disadvantaged families: • less likely to access organised out-of-school activities • more likely to experience 'unhealthy holidays' in terms of nutrition and physical health • more likely to experience social isolation The purpose of HAF is for children and young people who attend provision to: • eat more healthily over the school holidays • be more active during the school holidays • take part in engaging and enriching activities which support the development of resilience, character, and wellbeing along with their wider educational attainment • be safe and not to be socially isolated • have a greater knowledge of health and nutrition • be more engaged with school and other local services The programme should also ensure that families participating: • develop their understanding of nutrition and food budgeting • are signposted towards other information and support, for example, health, employment, and education.