Thousands of children and young people across the Royal Borough of Greenwich enjoyed a happy and healthy summer thanks to the council’s Holiday Food and Fun programme.
The scheme provides free holiday club sessions for children aged 4 to 16, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who are eligible for free school meals. Over 1,800 Greenwich children received healthy meals and took part in exciting activities over the summer, ranging from sports and drama to arts and crafts.
Research has shown that the school holidays can be pressure points for some families, leading to a holiday experience gap in activity, healthy eating and social interaction. The Holiday Activities and Food programme (called Holiday Food and Fun or HAF in Greenwich) was set up by the Department for Education in response to this issue, and provides healthy meals, enriching activities and free childcare places to children from low-income families.
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary said: “We are proud that Holiday Food and Fun gives our children so much more than a meal. It supports healthy eating, physical activity and social integration, all of which are vital for wellbeing. The feedback from families has been fantastic, and I want to thank our providers for helping us ensure that everyone’s health supports them in living their best lives.”
Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “Every child deserves the chance to enjoy the summer holidays, no matter their background. This programme makes sure that children not only eat well, but also gain confidence, learn new skills and make friends. More children who were eligible for the programme have taken part than ever before and seeing the smiles on their faces has been the best measure of success.”
Providers across the borough came together and worked tirelessly to make the summer a success, with 52 different programmes taking place held in total. The success of the programme relied heavily on the partnership and collaboration of our voluntary community sector.
Ellen Otchere, Managing Director at Divine Buzz CIC said: “This summer, the HAF programme turned Greenwich into a vibrant tapestry of joy, nourishment and belonging. From laughter-filled workshops to meals shared in our community, children and young people found more than activity; they found affirmation, adventure and a place to thrive. Together, we’ve planted seeds of confidence and connection that will flourish for seasons to come.”
In July, Peabody hosted a sports day for the five programmes in Thamesmead and Abbey Wood. It was a fantastic day, promoting physical activity and community connection. The children who came together from different programmes were able to see themselves as part of a wider community and the team-based challenges encouraged co-operation, communication and mutual support. Children were able to learn new skills and participate in a wide range of different games and the day was a resounding success.
The council will continue to build on the success of the programme, working closely with providers, community groups and families to make sure that even more children can benefit in the future.
Find your local Holiday Food and Fun programme.
If you are a potential provider and want to find out how to get involved, please email holiday-programme@royalgreenwich.gov.uk.
Although Summer 2025’s Holiday Food and Fun programme is now over, free meals are still available for children and young people in Greenwich during the other school holidays. Find details on October half term free meals here.