Children in Sutton to benefit from new food and activity initiative

School holidays can be a particularly challenging time for families who have limited access to activities, food or activities. Sutton Council has worked closely with partners, including schools, voluntary organisations and existing childcare providers, to plan a programme of activities for eligible families to access to help make this time a little easier. 

The HAF programme provides support during the holiday season to children who would normally access free school meals. The programme will be delivered over six weeks during the school holidays for those aged 5-16 and receiving Free School Meals. It will start in the Easter break (between 6 and 16 April) and continue in the Summer and Christmas breaks. During the Easter break eligible children and young people can enjoy up to sixteen hours of free activities together with healthy food - with COVID-19 restrictions still in place during this time, some activities will be delivered virtually.

As well as provision through existing holiday providers, participating schools will be providing a ‘Take and Make’ food box to eligible pupils during the last week of school term.  This means a  family can enjoy preparing a meal together. During the second week of the Easter break, there will be ‘Take and Make’ boxes available at convenient collection points throughout the borough.

Anna from Come and Play Childcare said;

'We are really excited in promoting this new service to FSM children and encourage them to expand their knowledge and engage through new and exciting activities.’

Councillor Marian James, Chair of People Committee said;

‘Making sure that no child goes hungry, or is disadvantaged during the school holidays is a huge priority for us as a Council and I am pleased that we are offering this ambitious programme of activities for our most vulnerable children in the Borough.’

‘I know that the past year has been a very difficult time financially for many  families and by offering this package of support during the holidays, we hope to take some of the pressure off our families and offer a lifeline to those worst hit by the pandemic. I encourage those who need help, to apply and get the support they need.’

If you would like to find out more about the Easter HAF Programme, how to book  the activities available, please visit www.sutton.gov.uk/HAF

If you need support accessing the website information or would like to know more about the programme, please email holidayactivityprogramme@sutton.gov.uk.