We are writing to urge you to extend the Government’s support for the provision of meals and activities, for children and young people during school holidays, through to the next general election.

Over the past five years, the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme has made a profound difference to hundreds of thousands of children, young people, and their families across England. In particular, it has:

• Improved children and young people’s diets, while increasing their participation in physical activity and enriching experiences during the holidays
  
• Expanded access to cultural, sporting, and educational activities that support aspiration and social mobility
  
• Enabled parents and carers to access childcare, connect with wider support networks, and better manage household finances
  
• Strengthened communities by improving wellbeing and resilience, with more families reporting greater connection and enhanced mental and physical health – levelling the playing field and breaking down the barriers they face
  

Research has shown that for every £1 invested in the HAF programme, there is a return of £8 in broader social value. These benefits include safer streets, reduced antisocial behaviour, and improved health outcomes.

For 13 weeks of the year, children and young people are without the structure and support of term-time provision. The school holidays present both a challenge and an opportunity, which HAF helps to meet.

While we welcome your continued commitment to HAF in the current year, funding for future years has not yet been confirmed. Clarity is urgently needed to allow the community youth sector and local authorities to plan and deliver positive opportunities effectively for next year and beyond.

We therefore ask you to confirm, as soon as possible, the Government’s commitment to extending this provision beyond 2025.

Yours,