Winter Holiday Activity and Food programme
The Holiday Activity and Food programme is being put on for West Sussex children over Christmas, which eligible families can now book.
After the success of the Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme over the summer, West Sussex County Council has teamed up with local clubs and organisations around the county to offer free, festive activities throughout the winter school break. The programme has also been fully funded by the Department for Education.
The programme is available for children aged 4 to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals. Eligible children and young people can take part in a range of activities and have a nutritious meal during the two-week break.
The Winter Holiday Activity and Food programme runs from 17th December 2021 – 4th January 2022, and families can search the clubs available near them and book on the Family Information Service online directory.
Families can find out more and watch a video of children over the summer on the West Sussex County Council webpage: www.westsussex.gov.uk/holiday-activities-and-food-programme
Supermarket Food Vouchers for Eligible Children
Over 16,000 eligible West Sussex children are being provided with supermarket food vouchers over Christmas, through funding from the Government’s Household Support Fund. Eligible West Sussex families have been provided with supermarket food vouchers over each of the school holidays since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic..
Eligible children will receive a £40 voucher (£20 per week) through their school, irrespective of whether they are taking part in the HAF scheme.
Nigel Jupp, Cabinet Member for Learning and Skills, said: “The summer Holiday Activity and Food programme was a great success, where 2,000 children from all over West Sussex joined holiday clubs and enjoyed a nutritious meal. Young people made new friends, learnt skills and most importantly, had lots of fun, so I would encourage families to find the clubs near them and book.
“Once again we are providing food vouchers over the school holiday as part of this comprehensive package of support for West Sussex families at a time when Covid-19 continues to have an impact on many.”
West Sussex Community Hub
The West Sussex Community Hub has been operating throughout the pandemic is available to provide support for those who need them. This includes support for children and families that are not eligible for free school meals.
People can contact the Community Hub through the website or by calling 0330 222 7980. Opening hours are 8AM–8PM from Monday – Friday and 9AM–5PM on weekends and bank holidays.
