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Nottingham Forest Community Trust has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local families by successfully hosting the latest Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

This initiative, funded by the Department for Education, aims to provide enriching activities and healthy meals to children from families who could benefit from additional support during school holidays.

The HAF programme, which has been a lifeline for many in the community, was made possible through a combined funding which was allocated to community groups, charities, and schools to deliver outdoor holiday activities in neighbourhoods across the city and county, with a focus on healthy eating, fitness, and mental health.

To capture the essence of the programme, we compiled a collection of images showcasing the children who directly benefited from attending the sessions. These images highlight the mix of ages, diversity, and vibrant blend of children that represent the Nottingham community.

This summer, the programme saw an impressive turnout, with 829 individual children participating in various activities during summer holidays.

By partnering with local organisations and employing local staff, the Community Trust ensures that funds are reinvested into the local economy, benefiting both organisations and individuals.

The benefit of collaborating with these local partners allowed the Community Trust to expand its reach, engaging an average of 158 children per day in activities led by coaches. Over the course of three weeks in August, a total of 2,527 attendances were recorded across 60 sessions held at five venues, resulting in 240 hours of engagement.

These activities were designed not only to reduce social isolation but also to encourage children to stay active, eat healthily, and engage in enriching experiences that builds resilience, character, and overall wellbeing.

Calum Osborne, Chief Executive Officer at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, expressed his excitement about the programme’s success: “”Since being appointed to deliver this programme in 2021, we have seen remarkable positive impact in both participation and community engagement.

“The success of this initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration and our commitment to making a lasting influence on Nottingham’s youth. It’s inspiring to see how the programme continues to bring together children from all backgrounds, building unity, diversity, and a sense of belonging.”

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme offers a wide range of benefits, particularly for children from low-income families:

Healthy Meals

Provides nutritious meals to children who may otherwise face food insecurity during the school holidays.

Enriching Activities

Offers a variety of activities that promote physical fitness, creativity, and learning, helping children stay engaged and active.

Social Interaction

Reduces social isolation by allowing children to interact with peers in a safe and supportive environment.

Skill Development

Helps children develop new skills, build confidence, and develop resilience, contributing to their overall personal growth.

Mental Health Support

Incorporates activities and environments that promote mental wellbeing, addressing the emotional needs of children.

Accessible Environment

Ensures that all children, regardless of ability, disability, or special needs, can participate, providing tailored support to create an inclusive and accessible environment where every child can thrive.

Educational Attainment

Supports children’s wider educational attainment by engaging them in learning experiences outside the classroom.

Financial Relief for Families

Eases the financial burden on families by providing free meals and activities, reducing the cost of childcare and food during holidays.

Community Building

Strengthens community ties by bringing together local organisations, families, and children, creating a sense of belonging.

Promotion of Healthy Lifestyles

Encourages healthy eating habits and physical activity, contributing to better long-term health outcomes for children.

Support for Working Parents

Provides a safe space for children during the day, allowing working parents to manage their work commitments more effectively.

Inclusive Access

While primarily for children on free school meals, it also offers limited spaces for other children, promoting inclusivity within the community.