HAF secured for another three-years
Summer may be behind us, but what a season it was for children and young people in St Helens Borough.
Article date: 25 September 2025
This year's summer HAF (Holiday Activities & Food) Programme) saw:
- 28 commissioned providers
- 531 fun-filled sessions
- 8,276 children & young people taking part
- A nutritious meal provided at every session
Since the programme began at Easter 2021, an incredible 70,631 meals have been served to local children and young people.
And the best news? HAF in St Helens has been extended for the next three-years, meaning even more fun, food, and opportunities during school holidays.
Funded by the Department for Education (DfE), HAF provides eligible children and young people with free access to holiday activity during the three main school holidays.
As part of this summer's programme, Council Leader Anthony Burns and Cabinet Member for Children & Young People, Councillor Nova Charlton, joined in the action at St Augustine of Canterbury Academy in Blackbrook—where they took part in a lively dodge ball session with local children and young people.
Councillor Charlton said: "Children and young people are our number one priority, and programmes like HAF play a vital role in giving them the best possible start in life.
"It's been fantastic to see so many families benefit this summer - with thousands of children and young people enjoying fun activities, making memories, and receiving nutritious meals.
"I'm proud we've secured this programme for the next three years, ensuring even more opportunities for our children and young people right across the borough."
Keep an eye out for details of our winter programme: www.sthelens.gov.uk/article/11207/Introduction-to-HAF