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Holiday Activity & Food (HAF) Programme

The Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) is a UK government scheme that provides free holiday clubs with meals and activities for children from low-income families during school holidays.

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The HAF programme aims to reduce “holiday hunger,” improve children’s health and wellbeing, and ensure children from disadvantaged families have safe and engaging activities during school holidays.

Who is it for?

Mainly children aged 4–16 who receive benefits-related free school meals (FSM), although some places may be offered to other vulnerable children.

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What is provides?

  • Free holiday clubs

  • At least one healthy meal per day

  • Activities such as sports, arts, music, cooking, and learning activities

  • Nutrition education and support for families

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When it runs?

Programmes usually run during Easter, summer, and Christmas school holidays.

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HAF eligibilty

Main eligibility criteria

A child is usually eligible if they:

  1. Receive benefits-related free school meals (FSM).

  2. Are school-aged, usually Reception to Year 11 (around ages 4–16).

  3. Live in or attend school in the local authority area that is running the programme.

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What “benefits-related free school meals” mean

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Children qualify for FSM if their parents receive certain benefits, for example:

  • Universal Credit (below a certain income threshold)

  • Income Support

  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Support under the Immigration and Asylum Act

  • Pension Credit (guaranteed element)

  • Child Tax Credit under a certain income level

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