Holiday activities and food (HAF) programme

Free, food and friendships for free!

If your child receives means-tested free school meals, they can enjoy free, fun-packed activities and nutritious meals during the school holidays. This is provided through the holiday activities and food (HAF) programme.

About the programme

The HAF programme is funded by the Department for Education (DfE) to support eligible children and families during school holidays. We know that holidays can be a challenging time for many families — and that’s where HAF steps in.

It provides:

free, enriching activities
a healthy, tasty meal each day
opportunities to learn, play, and connect

Children can attend:

up to 4 days at Easter
up to 16 days in the summer
up to 4 days in the winter

The programme does not currently run during half-term holidays.

Types of activities

There’s something for everyone! Our activities are designed to be fun, engaging, and help build confidence and skills.

Some of our popular activities include:

arts and crafts
sports and games
music, dance, and drama
science and creative learning
cooking and food education

Children will also:

be more active and creative
make new friends
learn new skills
enjoy a healthy meal
stay safe and supported

The clubs and activities are run by established community groups, youth organisations and schools. They're also run by groups who offer creative arts, sports and leisure activities. We also have a range of providers who can offer activities for young people with additional needs.

Who can take part

The HAF programme is primarily for children and young people who receive means-tested free school meals (FSM).

However, we also welcome applications from other eligible groups, including:

young carers
children who are cared for or care experienced
children and young people on Resettlement Schemes or seeking asylum
young people not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET)
children at risk of involvement in crime
children living in areas of deprivation
families in crisis
children with SEND or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) (up to age 18)

Some providers may also offer paid-for or subsidised places, using additional funding.

Check if your child is eligible

To check if your child is eligible for HAF and to obtain a booking code, please contact us by email.

In order for us to help, you will need to provide the following information:

your name
the child's name
the child's date of birth

How to find and book activities

Finding the right activity is easy. You’ll be able to view local clubs, events, and sessions in your area. Make sure to book early, places fill up quickly!

Search and book an activity

Becoming a HAF provider and getting involved

We’re always looking for enthusiastic providers to join our amazing HAF network. If you run community clubs, arts groups, sports sessions, or youth activities, we’d love to hear from you.

For an application form and to join our mailing list for future opportunities, please contact us by email.

Before applying to us, you should review the DfE guidance for HAF programme providers.

Contact us

Please contact us by email if you:

would like to know if your child is eligible for the HAF programme
need a reference number to book onto an activity
are interested in becoming a HAF provider
have questions about the programme

Email: HAF@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk

Please do not use our previous email address of HAF@cumbria.gov.uk. We no longer receive emails sent to this address.

Have your say

We value feedback from parents, guardians and HAF providers. We want to hear your experiences of the HAF programme, what worked and we where we can improve.