Programme of free activities and meals launched for Shropshire’s youngsters

There are a range of activities to boost physical, social and mental wellbeing for the children who need it most over the Christmas break.  

Shropshire Council is working with more than 20 different providers to run an exciting programme of events from 20-24 December, as part of the Government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. 

Pizza making at a summer HAF event

From dancing and boxing to bushcraft and cookery, there is something for everyone and there are free places available for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for free school meals. 

Free nutritious meals will be provided at each session, as well as information on nutrition to benefit the whole family. 

The What’s On Guide and HAF vouchers will start arriving in schools this week and will be handed out to families who are eligible for free school meals.  

To book onto activities please contact the holiday providers direct using the contact details listed in the What’s On Guide. Families will need to quote their voucher code. 

Some of the holiday programmes also include spaces for children and young people who are not in receipt of free school meals. 

Tanya Miles, Shropshire Council’s executive director of people, said:-

“I am absolutely thrilled that we are able to work with some amazing schools and companies to put together this wonderful programme of events over the Christmas holiday period. 

“It’s a great opportunity for children to learn new skills, socialise with friends, and enjoy nutritious food in a safe environment. 

“School holidays can be a particularly difficult time for some families due to increased food and childcare costs and reduced incomes. These events will hopefully take some of the stress off families who need extra support.” 

It follows on from an incredibly successful summer HAF programme, where over seven weeks 4,500 children and young people took part in a range of fun, enriching activities at 869 sessions and 64 venues.  

For more information on HAF in Shropshire, for a copy of the What’s On Guide and to sign up to the HAF e-news, click here.