Free HAF activities available for children throughout the Christmas holidays

A whole host of fun, creative and festive activities for children and young people will be available throughout the Christmas holidays for those receiving benefit-related free school meals.

The free sessions and events will take place in locations across the East Riding such as Beverley, Bridlington, Cottingham, Hornsea, Hedon, Driffield, Goole and Withernsea and include a Wonka-themed dance camp, winter wonderland crafts, Santa’s sports camp as well as a number of other festive -themed activities.

The activities are all part of the Holiday Activities and Food programmes, which are funded by the Department for Education, and are primarily aimed at those aged between five and 16 and who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.

All the activities are inclusive, with some SEND-specific sessions available such as UV glow sports and a range of fun activities and crafts.

A limited number of places are also available to children and young people who have an education, health and care plan (EHCP), regardless of their free school meal status.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, cabinet member for children, families and schools at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “As any parent of school-age children knows, keeping the kids entertained throughout school holidays is not easy, especially at this time of year too when the cost of Christmas and increased energy and food bills are starting to put a squeeze on household finances.

“There is a fabulous programme of events for our children and young people to keep them entertained, stay active and have fun without it costing the earth.”

* All places for this years’ Christmas activities must be booked in advance and eligibility may be checked when booking. To see what activities are available for the Christmas holidays, and to make a booking go to https://www.activeeastriding.co.uk/holiday-activities-and-food

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