Bexley's Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme has seen a significant increase in participation, with record numbers of children attending its enriching activities and receiving nutritious meals during school holidays. The programme, funded by the Department for Education, aims to support children eligible for benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM).
In the Summer 2025 programme, an impressive 109% of available places were booked, with 96% of those places attended, involving 11,626 children. This marks a consistent upward trend in engagement since the programme's inception in 2021. The programme's success is measured not only by booking and attendance percentages but also by qualitative indicators such as feedback from providers, parents, and children, highlighting the programme's positive impact on social skills, confidence, and the development of new talents.
Eligibility for benefits-related FSM in Bexley is determined by whether a child receives 'non universal' FSM and attends a school in Bexley. Beyond FSM-eligible children, up to 15% of the programme's budget is allocated to flexible funding for vulnerable families. The total budget for Bexley's HAF Programme for 2025/26 is £798,570.00. This flexible funding is used to offer places to a wide range of vulnerable groups in Bexley, including care-experienced young people, young carers, children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) issued by Bexley Council and deemed vulnerable, young people on a child protection plan, those living in areas of high deprivation, children known to services and schools, refugee and asylum-seeking families, Ukrainian children, elected home-educated children, young people at risk of being NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), those with no recourse to public funds (NRPF), and young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system. These families are referred by schools, partner agencies, or council teams.
Feedback from participants and providers highlights the programme's profound impact. Children have developed new skills, from hair braiding and sewing to sports and cooking, boosting their confidence and social interaction. Parents have expressed gratitude for the respite and the opportunity for their children to engage in activities they might not otherwise afford. Providers have also reported business growth and enhanced reputations.
The programme has supported a variety of young people, including young carers, who are responsible for younger siblings. It has allowed them to gain independence, build confidence and enjoy being a child,
stated one provider. Another parent shared, I would really like to thank the team — 'L' really struggles socially and this summer has completely changed him. He's more confident in making new friends and all round just very happy.
The Department for Education has confirmed funding for the HAF Programme until at least March 2029. Bexley Council has implemented revised funding methodologies to ensure money is spent on attended places. This means providers must reach 70% of their allocated places to receive the first 50% of payment, with the remainder paid based on actual attendance. This ensures that funding is directly linked to service delivery and prevents waste on empty booked spots, improving financial sustainability. The council has also improved the allocation of funded places for vulnerable families, particularly those with SEND. The council continues to actively seek feedback to ensure the programme remains responsive to the needs of its community.
Further details on the HAF Programme can be found in the HAF Report. The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda can be accessed here.
