Happy Healthy Holidays programme is back in Lancaster district for summer

Wednesday, 19 July 2023 11:18

Children and young people in the Lancaster district receiving free school meals are being invited to sign up to enjoy free activities during the summer holidays.

The Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) is back, and includes specific provisions available for children with SEND or additional needs, at no cost to parents.

The HAF programme provides four hours of activities a day, including a meal, over four days of the school holiday.

The next holiday activities and food programme will run in the summer from 24 July to 1 September.

To get a free place on the HAF programme, your family needs to be eligible for free school meals, although some children may be eligible for a place using discretionary criteria.

County Councillor Cosima Towneley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for children and families, said: "The activities on offer through the holiday activities and food (HAF) programme will help to increase self-esteem, improve wellbeing, with a strong focus on fun and friendship.

"HAF is there to ensure all children stay active, eat a nutritious meal, learn new skills make new friends in a safe and fun environment.

"I would encourage families to look what's on in your area and consider booking a place when invited."

The council are also able to offer 15% of places to children not on free school meals, who as result of other circumstances or vulnerabilities would still benefit from a free place. This could be children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities children missing from education young carers, orthose being supported on an early help plan.

To book on, click the links below:

Educraft - Lancaster Road Primary School, Morecambe

Indigo Arts & Crafts - The Clubhouse, New St, Brookhouse, LA2 9JP

Lancaster Boys and Girls Club - Dallas Road, Lancaster, LA1 1TP

Ludus Dance The Storey, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, LA1 1TH

This is a referral only programme. Referrals may be made by school nurses, head teachers, social services, CAMHS or any other charitable statutory support service.

Morecambe FC Community Sports - Heysham Mossgate Sports & Community Centre, Townson Way, Heysham, Morecambe LA3 2AW

Salt Ayre Leisure Centre - Doris Henderson Way, Morecambe, LA1 5JS

Scotforth Playschemes - Scotforth School, Lancaster

Smart Body Sports - Vale of Lune Rugby Club, Powder House Lane, Lancaster. LA1 2TT

Sports Works - The Centre @ Halton, Low Road, Halton, Lancaster, LA2 6NB

Wise Up

Bowerham Kidz Club - Bowerham Primary School, Bowerham Road, Lancaster, LA1 4BS

Sport Works Carnforth - Carnforth Christ Church Primary School, LA5 9LJ