Holiday activities and food (HAF) programme

If your child has free school meals, you can find and book free children's activities and events in the school holidays.

Children and young people who are eligible for free school meals, can take part in fully funded activities and meals during the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays.

The Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme is funded by the Department of Education.

Book a place on a HAF session

You can search and book activities online.

Search and book an activity

If you do not receive free school meals, you may be eligible if you are a:

  • cared for or care experienced child or young adult
  • young carers
  • child or young person on Resettlement Schemes
  • child or young person seeking asylum
  • young person who is not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET)
  • a family with another need
  • child or young person who is classed as SEND or on a EHCP but not on free school meals up to the age of 18

Some providers may offer paid for places or offer supplementary places through additional funding. To discuss eligibility or to request a code, contact the HAF team.

Email: haf@cumberland.gov.uk

Find further information if you need help with your wellbeing and welfare or financial help if you're having money problems.

When HAF runs

Eligible children can join the HAF programme for up to:

  • 4 days at Easter
  • 16 days in the summer
  • 4 days at Christmas

HAF code

To find out your HAF code, contact the HAF team with you child's name and date of birth.

Email: haf@cumberland.gov.uk

Types of activities

There are lots of different activities available including:

  • a selection of sports
  • music
  • arts and crafts
  • learning
  • developing understanding about food and nutrition

We want to give children the chance to have healthy, happy holidays so they can:

  • be more active
  • learn new skills
  • meet up with friends and make new ones
  • get a tasty nutritious meal
  • work together and stay safe

Clubs and activities are run by established community groups, creative arts, sports, leisure, youth organisations and schools.

We also have a range of providers who can offer activities for young people with additional needs.

Become a HAF provider

If you are a provider and would like to be part of the HAF programme, contact the HAF team for an application form.

Email: haf@cumberland.gov.uk

You will be added to our mailing list for future funding rounds.

Providers should read the full guidance set out on GOV.UK for the Holiday activities and food programme.

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