Children in need will be able to enjoy free activities this half term.

For the first time since its inception, Cheshire East Council's Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) will be offering free activities throughout the October school holidays.          

The scheme is open to children in receipt of income-related free school meals, offering a nutritious meal alongside the opportunity to socialise and have fun.

Councillor Laura Crane, chair of Cheshire East Council's children and families committee, said: "We're really pleased to be able to extend the scheme's availability to the October half term this year – giving our young people in receipt of income-related free school meals the chance to have fun, learn something new, and spend time with their peers."

Spaces on the free activity sessions can be booked online now (Credit: CEC)

The HAF programme has been running since 2021 and is available to children aged five to 16.

In August, Cheshire East announced that the government had agreed to extend funding for the programme for the next three years.

This in turn has allowed the council to start offering free activities, as well as hot lunches, during the October half term.

 Councillor Crane added: "This extension reflects our commitment, as set out in the Cheshire East Plan, to improving health and wellbeing for our children and families.

"It's encouraging to see this scheme being prioritised through both extended funding and increased delivery this half term, especially as we know that school holidays can place additional pressure on family budgets.

"We're continuing to work closely with local providers, community and voluntary groups to make these activities the best that they can be, to ensure that everyone who attends has a really enjoyable experience. We have some excellent sessions ready to book."

THE HAF programme sees the council work with local schools, childcare providers and community and voluntary organisations to put on various sessions, ranging from sports and crafts to baking and days out.

There is also sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

A limited number of spaces are available for the upcoming half term and can be secured through the online booking platform here.