Children can enjoy free fun and games over the school summer holidays by signing up to Ealing Council’s holiday activities and food (HAF) programme.
The programme, funded by the Department of Education, is offering nearly 30,000 free activity places for eligible children across the borough. It is available to pupils who receive benefits-related free school meals (FSM), and some limited additional places are also given to others.
Bookings are now open
The summer HAF programme will run from Monday 28 July to Friday 29 August, excluding weekends and bank holidays. Bookings are now open via a new online platform, which automatically checks eligibility against the FSM register – no booking codes are needed. Families can book using a computer, mobile or tablet. It is a good idea to book early to secure a place.
Activities will take place at 93 venues, delivered by 58 local providers including charities, youth groups, sports clubs and community organisations.
Children can enjoy a wide range of things to do, including:
- Football
- gymnastics
- dodgeball
- arts and crafts
- drama
- music and circus skills
‘We know how tough the summer holidays can be’
While the programme is primarily for school-aged children on benefits-related free school meals, families who are not eligible but may be struggling over the summer are encouraged to speak to their child’s school or a professional about a possible referral.
All HAF providers are expected to be inclusive. The council is working closely with parents and providers to support children with additional needs to access activities that can meet their needs and requirements.
Councillor Josh Blacker, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “We know how tough the summer holidays can be for many families, and the HAF programme is here to help. With thousands of free activity places available across the borough, it’s a fantastic opportunity for children to stay active, make friends and enjoy healthy meals in a safe and fun environment. We don’t want anyone to miss out, so if your child is eligible, please book a place and make the most of what’s on offer.”
More information
To find out more and book activities, visit the Ealing HAF booking page.
Families can also find more support and ideas for affordable fun this summer on the council’s cost of living leisure activities page, where you can also discover places that children can eat for free over the holidays. Go to the council’s cost-of-living web page.
