Since 2018, the Holiday Activity Fund (HAF) programme has provided support to children in receipt of free school meals through holiday periods. Research has shown that the school holidays can be pressure points for some families. For some children that can lead to a holiday experience gap. Children from low-income households are:
- less likely to access organised out-of-school activities
- more likely to experience ‘unhealthy holidays’ in terms of nutrition and physical health
- more likely to experience social isolation
The HAF programme responds to these issues. Evidence shows that free holiday clubs can have a positive impact on children and young people.
Throughout 2023 and 2024, Sport Birmingham has been involved in the delivery of HAF camps in priority neighbourhoods across Birmingham. Over the past two years, camps have been delivered at Aston Manor, Bishop Ilsley School, Arena Academy, Holyhead School and Holford Drive. Activities on offer include football, boxing, giant board games, basketball, skateboarding, DJ and dance events, music workshops, hair and beauty, round table conversations and free nutritious hot lunches.