Children and young people across Liverpool will once again be able to enjoy a programme of hundreds of FREE activities across the festive break.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme returns on Wednesday 27 December, with a huge choice of activities for children and young people from eligible families. As well as plenty of fun, healthy meals and snacks are served at all sessions.
Eligible families are those with children aged from reception to 16 (including Year 11 leavers) who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.
Liverpool’s programme has proved to be incredibly popular. During October’s half-term:
- 99 organisations offered activities
- Over 3,800 places were offered each day
- Over 6,400 children and young people took part
- Over 34,000 meals were served
- Over 300 volunteers supported the programme.
Merseyside Play Action Council (MPAC) delivers and co-ordinates the scheme on behalf of Liverpool City Council and the full list of providers and sessions can be accessed through the MPAC website.
Feedback from providers and parents about the sessions is always positive and is used to make sure that the programme goes from strength to strength:
“We hosted lunch clubs that both the young people and their parents were invited to and this gave the young people the opportunity to show the parents what we do at Walton Youth and Community Project, as well as an opportunity for the parents to interact with each other and discuss issues within the community.”
“You do so much for our kids, I don’t know how you do it. My kids have had an amazing week and the food is always amazing. It really does help us out and I’m sure many other families who have had bad times too were lucky to have this on their doorstep.”
“All of the kids that attended have come away absolutely buzzing with what they have learnt and come home with! In fact they have talked my ear off about it all the way home!”
The Department for Education funds the HAF programme in the Christmas, Easter and summer holidays whilst Liverpool City Council also funds a similar programme during the half-term breaks.
Cllr Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Services, said: “The Holiday Activities and Food programme makes a welcome return this Christmas. From sports and dancing to cooking and DJing with loads more choice in between, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone.
“Our programme has now become a vital part of many families’ holiday plans and we know that it is especially valued by parents who may be facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis.
“A very special shout out also needs to go to all the volunteers who also make the programme such a success – their passion and commitment to supporting families in Liverpool really shows the best of our city.”
Colin Heaney, HAF co-ordinator, Merseyside Play Action Council, said: “Every child has the right to play. The Holiday Activities and Food Programme in Liverpool provides children with the opportunity to take part in a range of free activities that help them grow and develop in a safe and stimulating environment, supported by trained staff and volunteers.
“Put like that, it doesn’t sound very exciting, does it? The reality is that right across the city, thousands of children and young people will be creating, exploring, debating, sharing, learning, caring and developing new skills, as well as receiving a healthy meal.
“Over the winter break, our providers will be delivering activities for children and young people in receipt of benefits-related free school meals. You can check out the full list of providers and their activities and opening times at www.merseyplay.com and also see where they are using our interactive map.”