Sutton Christmas holiday activities and food programme ready for booking!

The Christmas school holidays look set to liven up, with a bumper Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme in Sutton.

Holiday fun is now ready for booking, for two weeks of free activities and great food for children receiving benefits-linked free school meals. Local providers throughout the borough have organised a brilliant range of activities that will keep kids busy in so many ways. The programme is open for primary and secondary school aged children aged four to 16, including provision for those with additional/special educational needs and disabilities.

The programme is funded by the government and delivered by Sutton Council working with local organisations. This means we can provide healthy food and fun activities to as many children and young people as possible. 

Sessions include a variety of fun activities, with sports, music, arts and other exciting opportunities to learn and develop, along with a nutritious meal each day, at various locations around the borough.

Councillor Marian James, Chair of People Committee, said: “The cost of living is impacting many families in Sutton and the HAF programme is a fantastic way to ensure that our children get a healthy and nutritious meal, as well as activities to help them learn and have fun with friends. 

“This summer, over 2,700 young people came to one of our HAF activities, so if your child is in receipt of free school meals, please keep an eye out for an eligibility letter from the Council or an email from your child’s school with your unique booking code.”

If you are eligible for the programme but have not received your unique code by 28 November, please get in touch with the Council on 020 8770 5000 and ask for the HAF team.

For details about what’s on offer and how to book your child’s place visit www.sutton.gov.uk/HAF - booking commences on Thursday 24 November. Please remember, spaces are limited! 

Families who are eligible for Universal Credit may be able to claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs. Please visit Help With Childcare Costs (gov.uk) to find out more. 

Other free activities 

There are lots of activities for children and young people who aren’t in receipt of benefits-linked free school meals, from free activities at leisure centres and public buildings, to free webinars, concerts and art online - please visit our website for lots more information about what’s on to keep the kids occupied over the Christmas break, or visit the Libraries Events listing which has lots of great family events taking place.

The Sutton Family Information Service also has lots of information about what else is available - visit https://bit.ly/3OwfpFi