As the school holidays approach this Easter, there’s even more reason for the county’s children to have a spring in their step.
Over the next fortnight, more than 5,500 places will be available in Suffolk, via the Government funded Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) to encourage young people to benefit from a wide range of physical and cultural activities, combined with the offer of a healthy and nutritious meal.
Free activities will be provided for those who are in receipt of free school meals, bringing a wide range of opportunities to learn new skills, develop friendships and get active. In Suffolk, placements are also available for children with additional needs, as well as payable places for other young people wanting to experience the variety of sessions on offer locally.
Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said:
“These opportunities are vital in supporting our young people after a difficult two years. We know that young people were affected significantly by the pandemic, with increased reports of poor mental health, reduction in social development and noticeable reductions in physical activity. This programme is a great way for children from Reception to Year 11 to re-engage with a wide range of fun, positive experiences again after the disruption of lockdowns, and I’m delighted that we’ve developed such a strong offer.”
Suffolk was involved in the national pilot for the scheme from 2019, helping shape what the scheme looks like today as it is rolled out across the country. With more than £200m being invested nationally to provide holiday clubs across the Easter, Summer and Christmas periods until the end of 2024, even more children are benefitting from the popular scheme.
Working in partnership with District and Borough Councils, the scheme has seen an increase of providers delivering sessions this Easter, with over 100 organisations and charities now taking part, creating diverse activities such as outdoor adventure, cooking and swimming right across the county.
The local programme is due to launch in Suffolk from Monday 11 April 2022. Eligible children will have received details through their schools on how to book their places, but more information on the scheme can be found on the HAF project website.
