What is HAF?
We are delighted to share that the HAF programme funded by the Department for Education (DfE) has been extended for the next 3 years. Pupils in reciept of benefits related free school meals will be able to access free holiday clubs at Easter, Summer and Christmas where they will take part in physical activities, make friends, and enjoy a healthy meal. Our next programme will be 4 days of fun activities over the festive period 22 23 29 and 30 December 2025.
Southend Council and Eequ booking site have worked together to simplify the booking for our eligible families to book onto the programme. Eequ booking site will automatically check your eligibility once a parent/carer has created an account and entered their child's details. If your child is eligible, you will receive an email from your child's school from 21 November 2025 when bookings go live. If you are not in receipt of benefits related Free School Meals. Your child must be referred for a funded place by your school or a professional working with the family. A completed referral form is required.
Approved Providers deliver a programme where children and young people can try new activities, have fun and learn new skills. They include:
- arts and crafts
- dance
- music
- Festive activities
- Outdoor experiences, farm experience.
- Sports
- Football
- Family HAF Days
A healthy meal will be provided with every booked place.
Important information about your HAF bookings
Do not book your child onto a HAF club when you are going on holidays or have made plans with families and friends. Other eligible children miss out on the opportunity to attend a free holiday club and receive a hot meal.
Southend on Sea City Council expects HAF providers to be fully inclusive and make reasonable adaptions to meet the needs of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Parents/carers need to share information about their child's needs with the HAF provider. This will include copies of the child's individual support plans / Education, Health Care Plans (EHCP) and any medical care plans that are at the school to confirm the level of support being requested.
Provider contact details can be found on the providers booking page. If you have any questions after contacting your chosen provider, please email HAF@southend.gov.uk
If your child is in Reception Class, Year 1 and Year 2 they are Universal Free School Meals. You must be in receipt of Benefits Related Free School Meals to attend the HAF club: Apply for free school meals: search result - GOV.UK
To view a video from our last session in Spring, please see Holiday Activities and Food scheme for Southend-on-Sea
View the HAF 2023-24 Southend Local Authority Annual Report
If you need more information check the frequently asked questions page or email: HAF@southend.gov.uk