£600 Million Boost to Holiday Support for Children: What It Means for Essex Families

The UK Government has announced a significant £600 million funding extension to support disadvantaged children during school holidays through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. This investment ensures that thousands of children across the country will continue to benefit from holiday club activities and nutritious meals outside of term time.

Locally, this initiative is delivered as Essex Activate, a collaborative programme led by Active Essex in partnership with Essex County Council, the Department for Education, and a network of local organisations. Essex Activate has already made a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across the county, and this new funding ensures that support will continue through 2025 and beyond.

Reacting to the news of the funding extension Active Essex said “Active Essex is thrilled to hear about the three-year extension of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme from Government on Thursday and is proud to continue to be a part of the vital initiative. The extension reflects the programme’s proven value and long-term potential to support children and families across Greater Essex.

Delivered locally as Essex Activate in Essex and Thurrock, the HAF programme has had a transformative impact over the past four years, as over 30,000 children eligible for income related school meals have accessed high-quality holiday provision, combining physical and enriching activities with nutritious meals in safe, inclusive environments. These opportunities have helped improve overall wellbeing, reduce social isolation, boost skills and confidence, and provide valuable childcare and respite for families during school holidays.

Visit https://www.activeessex.org/children-young-people/essex-activate/ for more information.