The Department for Education (DfE) is providing funding to local authorities to coordinate a programme that provides healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children during the 2022 Easter, Summer and Christmas Holidays. Hampshire County Council and the Isle of Wight Council are delivering this through the connect4communities programme, supporting community based organisations in providing heathy and enriching activities and healthy meals for children aged 5 – 16 years.
The aim is for children who attend this provision to:
- eat healthily over the school holidays
- be active during the school holidays
- take part in engaging and enriching activities which support the development of resilience, character and wellbeing along with their wider educational attainment
- be safe and not to be socially isolated
- have a greater knowledge of health and nutrition
- be more engaged with school and other local services
Additionally the schemes ensure that the families who participate in this programme:
- develop their understanding of nutrition and food budgeting
- are signposted towards other information and support, for example, health, employment, and education
The HAF scheme is being delivered locally in Hart by SCL, Koosa Kids and Personal Best Education.
Citizens Advice Hart advisers have been attending the club sessions to give out information and provide advice and support for those who may be struggling to afford bills. We can provide fuel and food vouchers along with debt and money management advice. We also support with any issues faced by families who need advice to help them find a way forward.