Cheshire West and Chester launch Holiday Activities and Food Programme

Cheshire West and Chester Council has announced the launch of the Winter Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) and the programme has been confirmed for another three years.

The Council, in partnership with Edsential and a wide range of community organisations, is delivering a fantastic programme of free activities and nutritional support for eligible children and families this winter.

Twenty-three clubs across 43 locations will offer exciting activities for children and young people including free family events like local pantomimes and bowling.

The holiday period can be a challenging time for some families, with children at risk of poor nutrition, reduced physical activity, and social isolation. The HAF programme aims to address these issues by providing free, fun, and healthy activities for children and young people eligible for Benefits Related Free School Meals (BRFSM). Provision is available for children with special education needs and disabilities (SEND), who are eligible.

Cllr Adam Langan, Lead Member for Children and Families at Cheshire West and Chester Council said:

“I’m really pleased by the wide variety of events being offered during this year’s Christmas holidays. Children and young people accessing activities are going to have a brilliant time. The HAF programme has an amazing impact. I would encourage those eligible to sign up as soon as possible as the first programmes are due to start very soon.”

“Let’s Cook” recipe boxes will be distributed in partnership with Changing Lives Together (CLT), encouraging families to prepare healthy meals at home. This year, 3,000 boxes will be delivered across 54 schools, who will prioritise areas of greatest need.

Families of children eligible for BRFSM can book directly onto activities on the link below. Paid places are also available through many providers, ensuring wider access for families who do not meet eligibility criteria.

For full details of HAF provision and booking information please visit: 

HAF Cheshire West - Edsential 

For general information on what is available during the school holidays visit: 

School Holiday Webpage

The Council recognises the challenges families face and has compiled cost of living support resources: 

Cost of living support

If you have any questions about the HAF programme, please email:

HAF@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk