The Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme is a government-funded initiative from the Department for Education, designed to support children and families during school holidays. The programme targets children eligible for benefit-related free school meals (FSM), offering them access to enriching activities and nutritious meals—helping to combat holiday hunger and reduce food poverty.

In Tameside, the HAF Programme is delivered in partnership between Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council (TMBC) and Active Tameside. This Easter, the HAF programme commissioned over 35 holiday camps and partnered with 8 community groups, all with the shared aim of reaching as many eligible children across the borough as possible.

One of these vibrant and well-attended camps took place at Active Oxford Park, where the Fuel4Fun holiday camp welcomed over 60 children each day for a range of fun, active, and inclusive sessions.

During the Easter break, Councillor Feeley paid a special visit to the Fuel4Fun camp at Oxford Park, accompanied by Active Tameside’s Director of Health and Social Outcomes Shaun Higgins and Head of Health and Social Outcomes Dan Higgins. Together, they spoke with dozens of young attendees about the impact the camps have had on them, the friendships they’ve built, and the wide variety of activities they’ve enjoyed—from sports and games to creative sessions and team challenges.

Councillor Feeley also took time to speak with many parents and carers, who expressed how essential the HAF programme is to their children’s health and wellbeing during school holidays. Many described the camps as a lifeline—offering structure, support, and positivity during what can be a difficult time for families.

Speaking after the visit, Councillor Feeley praised the commitment and care of the Fuel4Fun team, highlighting the vital role that HAF plays in promoting health, wellbeing, and community cohesion across Tameside.

With continued collaboration between TMBC, Active Tameside, and local community organisations, HAF in Tameside continues to go from strength to strength—ensuring every eligible child has the chance to grow, play, and succeed, no matter their background.