Free holiday clubs and meals for thousands of West Northamptonshire children could continue
Thousands of children could continue to receive free meals and activities during the school holidays under plans going before Reform-led West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet.
Councillors will be asked on September 15 to approve proposals designed to secure the future of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme between 2027 and 2029.
The scheme offers free holiday club places to children eligible for benefits-related free school meals, alongside other vulnerable youngsters, during the Easter, summer and winter breaks.
More than 31,500 places were provided through the programme over the past year, benefiting 3,488 children and young people across West Northamptonshire.
Sessions combine healthy meals with activities intended to keep youngsters active, develop skills and provide opportunities to socialise during the holidays.
Cabinet members are being recommended to accept future Department for Education funding and appoint a specialist organisation to coordinate the scheme.
Councillor Michael Stratton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said the programme had made a “real difference” to thousands of families.
He added: “School holidays should be a time when children can have fun, stay active and enjoy new experiences, regardless of their family's circumstances.”
If Cabinet gives its approval, the council will begin finding a delivery partner for the programme from 2027.