Holiday Activities and Food Programme to deliver first ever Autumn sessions

For the first time since the scheme’s inception, free activities are now available to book for the October half term as part of Cheshire East Council’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme.

The scheme is open to children in receipt of income-related free school meals, offering a nutritious meal alongside the opportunity to socialise and have fun.

Working together with local schools, childcare providers and community and voluntary organisations, sessions will be available offering everything from sports, arts and crafts, baking and trips out, alongside sessions for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The holiday activities and food programme has been running since 2021 and is available to children aged 5 to 16.

The council recently shared that an extension of funding for the next three years has been made available for the programme, enabling the opportunity to learn, play and receive a hot lunch during the academic half terms to continue.

Councillor Laura Crane, chair of Cheshire East Council’s children and families committee, said:

“We’re really pleased to be able to extend the scheme’s availability to the October half term this year – giving our young people in receipt of income-related free school meals the chance to have fun, learn something new, and spend time with their peers. 

"This extension reflects our commitment, as set out in the Cheshire East Plan, to improving health and wellbeing for our children and families.

“It’s encouraging to see this scheme being prioritised through both extended funding and increased delivery this half term, especially as we know that school holidays can place additional pressure on family budgets.

“We’re continuing to work closely with local providers, community and voluntary groups to make these activities the best that they can be, to ensure that everyone who attends has a really enjoyable experience. We have some excellent sessions ready to book.”

Limited spaces are available now for the half term, and can be secured here: 

Cheshire East HAF booking platform