The biggest Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme yet has officially launched in West Sussex.
Eligible families can use a new online booking system to sign up for free summer holiday clubs near them to help keep children active over the school break.
West Sussex County Council has again teamed up with over 50 clubs across the county to offer an exciting range of sports, kids camps, swimming, crafts, music, drama and more – all with a nutritious meal provided.
Places are free-of-charge for West Sussex children aged 4 to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals, subject to availability.
The Council are also providing families with a voucher which provides access to free oral health products for the whole family. This is delivered via the Early Help Family Hubs.
Find out more about Holiday Activities and Food programme and check if your child is eligible on the webpage. Families will need to use their existing code to register.
Supermarket food vouchers
The Council will again be providing supermarket food vouchers to around 19,000 children who receive benefits-related free school meals, funded through the Household Support Fund. A £60 voucher is being given to families through their school to provide £10 a week of food per eligible child. Vouchers are being offered separately, irrespective of if a child takes up a HAF place.
Councillor Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Learning and Skills said:
“Thousands of West Sussex Children have taken part in the Holiday Activities and Food programme since it launched in 2021 and this year will be the biggest programme to date. With so many clubs and groups on board, there are plenty of options for children to enjoy a summer full of healthy activities and food. We encourage families to take up the free club places, which provide children with opportunities for new experiences and friendships that will help them fulfil their potential.
“We are also providing food vouchers again for every eligible child to further support families at a time when financial pressures continue to affect many.”
Community Hub support
The West Sussex Community Hub continues to operate seven days a week, providing food and essentials to people who need support, including those not eligible for free school meals.
The Community Hub can be contacted on 0330 222 7980 and is open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.
Emotional wellbeing support for young people
The holidays are a great time for children and young people to take a break and enjoy some fun. However, some may be feeling lonely away from their friends in school, worried about exam results or just feeling down. Now could be a good time to check in with a child or young person about how they’re feeling.
Our Your Mind Matters website offers information, guidance and links to resources and organisations that can help you support your child’s mental health.
