From today (Monday June 9) parents and carers can book places on the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme this summer.
The Government-funded scheme provides activities and nutritional meals over the holidays for children aged five to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals.
And if your child is not eligible for benefits-related free school meals they still may be able to access activities under our ‘extended criteria.’
You can find more information about our extended criteria on information for parents and carers on our children, families and education webpage.
And now, to make it easier, you can view and book activities online. The new EEQU system displays all the holiday activities on offer, with links detailing where and when the activity is, how to get there and other important information.
Once you’ve applied the booking system will carry out an instant assessment of their eligibility to attend. If eligible, you will receive a confirmation of the booking and you will be sent reminders ahead of the session.
And if you need to cancel its easy to do and will free up the slot allowing those on the waiting list the chance to book.
The HAF programme is a government-funded initiative which we have been delivering since 2018.
We now work with over 100 holiday activity providers around Devon who provide a wide range of activities for children and young people.
From arts and crafts workshops to sports and outdoor activities, the programme is designed to keep children engaged, active, and well-nourished during the school break. All clubs will be operating for a minimum of four hours and will include a hot meal.
We have also increased the number of places for secondary school aged children, with some sessions taking place during the evenings and at weekends.
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Services and Education said:
“There are approximately 20,000 children and young people across Devon who are eligible to attend these funded activities.
“For many families, school holidays can be a difficult and stressful time and with children at home for six weeks costs can quickly add up. Our successful HAF programme aims to make it a little bit easier for families.
“However places are limited; and I encourage parents and carers of children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals, those who have an EHCP
special educational needs and disabilities, children in care, or young carers to have a look at our website to see what’s happening near you and book their child’s place as soon as possible.”
