Island Children Offered Six Weeks Of Free Summer Activities And Meals

Thousands of Isle of Wight children are set to benefit from six weeks of free activities and healthy meals during the summer holidays as the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme returns.

Organisers say this year's scheme will be the biggest yet, with a packed programme running from 27 July to 28 August at venues across the Island.

Funded by the Department for Education and delivered locally by the Isle of Wight Council, the initiative is aimed at supporting children and young people from low-income families during the school break.

Youngsters will be able to take part in a wide range of activities, including horse riding, watersports, bushcraft, sports coaching, arts and crafts, music and theatre workshops.

Sessions will take place at schools, community venues and outdoor locations across the Island, with activities available for different age groups and specialist provision for children with SEND.

Every session will include a free healthy meal, helping to support children's wellbeing while easing pressure on family budgets during the summer holidays.

Rhea Martin, HAF Delivery Officer, said:

"We're incredibly excited to be bringing the biggest summer HAF programme to the Island this year.

"There really is something for everyone, from sports and outdoor activities to creative arts and new experiences."

Councillor Ros Freeman, Chair of the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee, said the programme plays an important role in supporting local families while giving children access to enriching experiences during the holidays.

Free places are primarily available to children who receive benefits-related free school meals, although a limited number of discretionary places will also be available.

Bookings open at midday on Tuesday 23 June through the Isle of Wight HAF booking system.