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Cheshire West summer Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme

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The HAF Programme is funded nationally by the Department for Education and supports local organisations to provide free holiday provision to school aged children and young people from reception to year 11 (inclusive) on benefits-related free school meals (FSM) - helping them to access healthy food, take part in fun activities and meet new friends in a safe and fun environment.
There are also paid places available with some providers for those who do not meet the criteria, so that other children and young people can join in the fun too.

Full information is available on the dedicated Cheshire WestContinue reading
The HAF Programme is funded nationally by the Department for Education and supports local organisations to provide free holiday provision to school aged children and young people from reception to year 11 (inclusive) on benefits-related free school meals (FSM) - helping them to access healthy food, take part in fun activities and meet new friends in a safe and fun environment.
There are also paid places available with some providers for those who do not meet the criteria, so that other children and young people can join in the fun too.

Full information is available on the dedicated Cheshire West and Chester pages of the HAF website.
Summer Holiday Activities and Food
Edsential Community Interest Company is working with several organisations, including schools, community, voluntary and faith sector organisations to organise 65 summer holiday activity clubs throughout the borough.
Each eligible child will be provided with a good quality nutritious meal, plus, they can look forward to a wide range of activities designed to be engaging and fun. From sports such as football, dodgeball and rounders to den building, baking, cooking classes and forest school activities.
Brio Leisure is offering a variety of activities for young people. Sports camps will be held at Neston Recreation Centre, catering for 4 to 12-year-olds. Additionally, fun and floats and craft sessions are available for young people aged 5 to 18 years with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) at Ellesmere Port Sports Village, Winsford Lifestyle Centre, and Northwich Memorial Court. For further details or enquiries, please email: info@brioleisure.org.
Young People Service will deliver a Future Focus summer scheme. The programme is aimed at young people aged 16-19 who are currently not in employment, education or training, or leaving Year 11 this summer and have not yet secured a post 16 placement for September. The range of activities will include confidence building and employment skills, team building and emotional and financial wellbeing.
Youth Zone for 11–16-year-olds (up to 25 for our SEND children and young people) will provide a summer programme including activity day trips, indoor and outdoor sports sessions, team building skills, Breakout Rooms and much more. For more information, email the Youth Service:
YoungPeoplesService@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
For more information about SEND specific activities, check out our website or if you have any queries, email: AimingHighForDisabledChildren@cheshirewest.gov.uk
To check if your child is eligible for Free School Meals, visit our website:
Free school meals | Cheshire West and Chester Council
If you have any questions about the HAF programme , please email:
HAF@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

A comprehensive list of other, non-HAF related, summer holiday activities across the borough is available on the Council’s website:
School holiday activities | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Help us to make our services better

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Your voice is important to us. If you or a member of your family/friends uses any of the services detailed below, then we’re keen to get your/their views as this will help us to make improvements to our services.

Starting Well
We would like to gather some initial ideas from people who use a Starting Well 0-19 service (up to 25 years old for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and those who don’t, to understand what works well and what could be done better.
The Starting Well service delivers support to children, young people, their families andContinue reading
Your voice is important to us. If you or a member of your family/friends uses any of the services detailed below, then we’re keen to get your/their views as this will help us to make improvements to our services.

Starting Well
We would like to gather some initial ideas from people who use a Starting Well 0-19 service (up to 25 years old for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and those who don’t, to understand what works well and what could be done better.
The Starting Well service delivers support to children, young people, their families and carers across Cheshire West and Chester. The service is based mainly in Children’s Centres but also delivers support in families and carers' homes, and in schools.
Closing date for responses – Friday, 9 May 2025
The form takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
Complete the feedback form

Adult Social Care
We want to hear about your experience when receiving support from the Council’s Adult Social Care Service.

The survey is open to those people who are receiving support as well as their family members, carers and advocates. We’re keen to hear what you think is particularly good about the service you’ve received from Adult Social Care and where you think we could make improvements.
This is an open-ended feedback form so there is no closing date for responses.
The survey takes approximately 5 minutes to complete.
Complete the short survey
Fun for all the family this half term

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If you’re looking for something to do this February half term with the family, then take a look at the Council’s web page packed full of low-cost or free events for everyone to enjoy.
Events and activities are happening daily throughout the week and there's plenty of choice of things to do - from interactive performances, football camp, bird trails, pool parties and much more.

School holiday activities | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Information for activities and events have been provided by our partners. Therefore, we advise that you contact the event organiser for the most up to dateContinue reading
If you’re looking for something to do this February half term with the family, then take a look at the Council’s web page packed full of low-cost or free events for everyone to enjoy.
Events and activities are happening daily throughout the week and there's plenty of choice of things to do - from interactive performances, football camp, bird trails, pool parties and much more.

School holiday activities | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Information for activities and events have been provided by our partners. Therefore, we advise that you contact the event organiser for the most up to date information.
Support for new parents

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Child Benefit
Did you know you can claim your Child Benefit online or via the HMRC app? More than one million parents have claimed in this way since the new digital service was launched earlier this year.
Child Benefit is worth £1,331 a year for the first child and £881 a year for each additional child. It can be claimed just 48 hours after registering a baby’s birth and parents typically receive their first payment within three working days. Claims can be backdated by up to 12 weeks, so the sooner families claim, the better. Child Benefit is typically paidContinue reading
Child Benefit
Did you know you can claim your Child Benefit online or via the HMRC app? More than one million parents have claimed in this way since the new digital service was launched earlier this year.
Child Benefit is worth £1,331 a year for the first child and £881 a year for each additional child. It can be claimed just 48 hours after registering a baby’s birth and parents typically receive their first payment within three working days. Claims can be backdated by up to 12 weeks, so the sooner families claim, the better. Child Benefit is typically paid every four weeks.
Downloading the free HMRC app makes managing claims even easier too. Families can use the app to track payments and update their details on the go – from changing their address or bank details, to seeing when their next payment is landing.
To make a claim online, visit: Child Benefit: Make a claim - GOV.UK or via the HMRC app, visit: Download the HMRC app - GOV.UK
Healthy Start supports families in need
If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.
If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. Your benefit will be added onto your card every four weeks.
You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow’s milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow’s milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children – these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

To find out about applying for Healthy Start, visit: Applying for Healthy Start – Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
or how you can use Healthy Start, visit Using Healthy Start – Get help to buy food and milk (Healthy Start)
Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme

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Bookings are now open for the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme
Get ready for festive fun with 34 FREE activity clubs across the borough.
As Christmas approaches, so does the excitement for the return of the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) funded by the Department for Education. Edsential have been working alongside Cheshire West and Chester Council to bring families together, with a whole host of festive activity clubs available that are designed to keep children and young people engaged and active this Christmas.
With a network of 34 clubs spread across the borough, the HAF programmeContinue reading
Bookings are now open for the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme
Get ready for festive fun with 34 FREE activity clubs across the borough.
As Christmas approaches, so does the excitement for the return of the Christmas Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) funded by the Department for Education. Edsential have been working alongside Cheshire West and Chester Council to bring families together, with a whole host of festive activity clubs available that are designed to keep children and young people engaged and active this Christmas.
With a network of 34 clubs spread across the borough, the HAF programme is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for young people aged 5 to 16 years old in receipt of benefit related free school meals. This year, new clubs will be joining the programme, offering even more festive activities. From winter sports like ice skating and indoor football to holiday-themed arts and crafts, baking and cooking classes, nature bushcraft, campfires, and day trips all with a Christmas twist—this season promises something for every taste and interest. For older children, additional activities such as holiday wellness sessions, hair, and beauty workshops will be available. And the best part? Free, nutritious meals will be served throughout the programme, ensuring that children stay energised and nourished during the Christmas break.
The Summer HAF initiative saw over 4000 children and young people in Cheshire West and Chester benefitting from enriching activities and healthy meals provided. Those who took part were thrilled, with many parents praising the clubs’ ‘lovely staff’ and their ability to be ‘brilliant with kids.’ Parents were delighted that their children were entertained and well-fed during the holidays, and this Christmas is set to be even more special.
Cllr Adam Langan, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Cheshire West and Chester, said: “What a wonderful programme we have for this Christmas. So many children from all backgrounds, from all across the borough will get to enjoy a magical time. The activities for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) will have an amazing impact on children and families. I hope the children enjoy the pantos, food hampers and all of the activities the teams have planned.”
Heather Lewis, the Programme Manager for HAF, expressed her excitement, stating,
“We have an exciting lineup of holiday activities and food clubs this Christmas for children and young people across Cheshire West. Our mission is to create a safe, festive, and inclusive environment where they can have fun, learn new skills, and form lasting friendships. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an initiative that helps young people thrive.”
Edsential urges all parents and carers to check if their child is eligible for free school meals, as it could unlock a host of benefits. Eligible children not only gain access to the diverse programme of Christmas activities but also delicious and nutritious free lunches throughout the school term.
Ready for your child to dive into a Christmas of excitement? Book your child's spot at one of the Christmas holiday activity clubs or check eligibility at: www.edsential.com/HAF.
Family fun this half term

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If you’re still looking for something fun to do with the family this half term, there’s lots going on across Cheshire West and Chester.
To make it easier to access what you’re looking for there’s a page on the Council’s website packed full of activities, events and exhibitions for children and young people of all ages. From craft activities through to sports camps and a whole host of spooky events, including a Haunted House Workshop and Frankenstein’s Museum, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
Most of the events listed are free or low-cost, too.
We hope you have a greatContinue reading
If you’re still looking for something fun to do with the family this half term, there’s lots going on across Cheshire West and Chester.
To make it easier to access what you’re looking for there’s a page on the Council’s website packed full of activities, events and exhibitions for children and young people of all ages. From craft activities through to sports camps and a whole host of spooky events, including a Haunted House Workshop and Frankenstein’s Museum, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
Most of the events listed are free or low-cost, too.
We hope you have a great half term.

School holiday activities
Summer Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF)

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The Cheshire West summer 2024 HAF provision will shortly be getting underway across the borough for children and young people who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals (FSM).
The Council, alongside Edsential and a range of community partners, is running a wide range of fantastic activities that will run throughout the school summer holiday.
The HAF Programme is funded by Department for Education to support local organisations to provide fun activities for children and young people during the holidays, while also helping them to access healthy food.
This year, all provision for the HAF Programme can be foundContinue reading
The Cheshire West summer 2024 HAF provision will shortly be getting underway across the borough for children and young people who are in receipt of benefits-related free school meals (FSM).
The Council, alongside Edsential and a range of community partners, is running a wide range of fantastic activities that will run throughout the school summer holiday.
The HAF Programme is funded by Department for Education to support local organisations to provide fun activities for children and young people during the holidays, while also helping them to access healthy food.
This year, all provision for the HAF Programme can be found on the new dedicated west Cheshire area on the Edsential website Cheshire West & Chester – Edsential Holiday Activity Fund
Criteria/eligibility for the programme
This holiday provision is for school aged children from reception to year 11 (inclusive) who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Benefits-related free school meals (FSM) are available to pupils if their parents are in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits, and have a claim verified by their school or local authority.
Further information on eligibility for Free School Meals. Free school meals | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Latest news on the government’s Household Support Fund

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The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items.
The current round of funding is open until 30 September 2024 and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people.

If you fall into one of these categories and haven’t already received support through the Household Support Fund since April 2024, we are now accepting further applications for remaining funding.

To find out if you’reContinue reading
The government’s Household Support Fund is there to support households in the most need, especially with energy costs, food, water bills and other related essential items.
The current round of funding is open until 30 September 2024 and is available to a broad range of low-income households across the borough, including families with children of all ages, pensioners, unpaid carers, care leavers and disabled people.

If you fall into one of these categories and haven’t already received support through the Household Support Fund since April 2024, we are now accepting further applications for remaining funding.

To find out if you’re eligible to apply for a one off payment of £50, visit:
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/household-support-fund
For families of children in receipt of free school meals the usual £15 food voucher, per week, per pupil, will be issued by the school for the 6-week summer break period.
There is currently no confirmation from government that the Household Support Fund will be continuing beyond 30 September 2024.

Additional support and advice is available for anyone who is struggling to pay their bills, requires debt advice or who’s health has been affected by the rising cost of living.
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Latest news on the government’s Household Support Fund

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As you may be aware, the government recently announced that they will be extending the Household Support Fund (HSF) for a further six months – from 1 April to 30 September 2024. Details of how the funding will be allocated will be available on the Council's website in the coming weeks.

The Household Support Fund is there to support people living in low-income households who are struggling to afford their energy and water bills, food, and other essential items. To find out if you’re eligible for support, visit:
Household support fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Easter food vouchers
Continue reading
As you may be aware, the government recently announced that they will be extending the Household Support Fund (HSF) for a further six months – from 1 April to 30 September 2024. Details of how the funding will be allocated will be available on the Council's website in the coming weeks.

The Household Support Fund is there to support people living in low-income households who are struggling to afford their energy and water bills, food, and other essential items. To find out if you’re eligible for support, visit:
Household support fund | Cheshire West and Chester Council
Easter food vouchers
Out of the remaining budget available from this year’s round of HSF (up to 31 March 2024) food vouchers will be provided for families with children in receipt of free school meals, for the Easter holiday period. Each eligible pupil will receive £10 per week. Schools will issue the vouchers to families in advance of the Easter holiday.
Help with paying for your childcare

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Currently, all 3 to 4-year-olds in England can get 570 free hours of early education per year. It’s usually taken as 15 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year.
This can be increased to 30 hours free childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are: in work, on sick leave or annual leave or on shared parental, maternity, paternity, or adoption leave.
There is also 15 hours of free early education available for the most disadvantaged 2-year-olds to support the child’s development.
In March 2023, the Government announced it would be extending childcare support toContinue reading
Currently, all 3 to 4-year-olds in England can get 570 free hours of early education per year. It’s usually taken as 15 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year.
This can be increased to 30 hours free childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are: in work, on sick leave or annual leave or on shared parental, maternity, paternity, or adoption leave.
There is also 15 hours of free early education available for the most disadvantaged 2-year-olds to support the child’s development.
In March 2023, the Government announced it would be extending childcare support to include 30 hours a week of free childcare for eligible working parents of children aged nine months to three years in England. This is to support parents returning to work by reducing the cost of childcare. Parents working the equivalent of 16 hours a week or more (earning the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage) and earning up to £100k per year will be able to benefit from this offer.
Families can now check their eligibility and sign up to receive a newsletter and updates through the Childcare Choices website.
www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/
The roll out of the expansion is happening in the following phases

From April 2024, working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours of free childcare a week (38 weeks a year).

From September 2024, working parents of 9 month to 3-year-olds will also be eligible for this.

From September 2025, this will increase to 30 hours a week for working parents of 9 month to 3-year-olds.

Eligible families will be able to access the new entitlements from the term after their child turns the appropriate age. You will need to apply for an eligibility code via HMRC and share this with your chosen childcare provider, to access your funded hours. You will also need to revalidate your code every 3 months.

Eligible working families with 2-year-olds can apply for their code from now until 31 March 2024 to access the new 2-year-old entitlement from April 2024.
The new entitlements can be stretched over the year depending on the number of weeks your chosen childcare provider is open. This would mean fewer hours per week are accessed over more weeks of the year, so the same total number of hours are accessed over the course of the year.
Whilst the childcare hours are free, providers can charge for meals, snacks, consumables, and additional services. Families are advised to contact their childcare provider to ask about their funded offer.