Agenda item

To receive an update on the Happy, Healthy & Active Holidays programme.

The Interim Director: Education & Skills presented the report which provided an overview of the Healthy Happy Active Holidays (HHAH) Programme and its development across Telford and Wrekin.

Members heard that the programme formed the borough's delivery model for the national Holiday Activities and Food Programme and aimed to support children and young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing healthy meals, enrichment opportunities and social activities during school holidays.

The Committee were advised that the programme had expanded considerably since 2022, growing from a small number of providers to a network of more than 70 organisations delivering provision across the borough. Summer delivery now offered approximately 16,000 places with around 20,000 places available across the academic year. Activities included sports, outdoor learning, cooking sessions, creative activities and transition support for Year 6 pupils.

Particular emphasis was placed on the programme's inclusive approach. Members heard that SEND provision had increased significantly and that additional specialist sessions had been commissioned in response to feedback from families. The service worked closely with PODS and other partners to ensure provision met local needs whilst also supporting inclusion within mainstream activities wherever possible.

The Committee was advised that future development would focus on increasing participation rates, particularly amongst secondary-aged young people and strengthening links between HHAH and the wider youth offer. Funding had been secured nationally until 2029, providing stability to support the continued development of the programme.

Members welcomed the report and commended officers and delivery partners for the success of the programme. Members highlighted the importance of the programme in supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged families during the school holidays, recognising that extended breaks from school could be particularly challenging for some children and families.

The Committee welcomed the continuation of funding until 2029 and expressed hope that Government support would continue beyond this date. Members also welcomed the expansion of SEND provision and the close partnership working with local stakeholders, particularly PODS, noting the value of providing opportunities for children who may struggle within traditional school settings. Particular praise was given to the cooking and nutrition activities delivered through the programme, with Members recognising the importance of developing practical life skills whilst enabling children and families to prepare healthy meals together within their communities.

The Committee discussed the recent expansion of Free School Meal eligibility and sought assurance regarding the programme's capacity to accommodate any increase in demand. Members also welcomed the decision to expand the winter offer, recognising that families often face additional financial pressures during the colder months and school holidays over the Christmas period.

The Council's responsiveness to feedback was praised, alongside the strong collaborative relationships that existed between the Council, schools, community organisations, Family Hubs and other partners. Members further highlighted the benefits of the programme in supporting children during the transition from primary to secondary education by providing opportunities to meet and build relationships with peers from different schools before starting Year 7.

In response, the Interim Director: Education & Skills advised that capacity and participation levels were monitored closely and that delivery was intentionally planned with flexibility to accommodate additional demand where required. Whilst not all available places were currently filled, regular reviews were undertaken to identify opportunities to improve participation and expand provision. The Interim Director: Education & Skills explained that cooking activities had become an increasing focus of the programme, with funding being used to support sessions where children and parents could learn to prepare affordable meals together. Discussions were also taking place with secondary schools regarding the potential use of school facilities, including specialist cooking areas, during holiday periods.

The Interim Director: Education & Skills explained that the winter programme had been reshaped in response to feedback and patterns of demand. As a result, resources had been moved away from the May half-term holiday and redirected towards provision during the winter period and Christmas holidays, when families often faced greater challenges and demand for support was higher. The importance of the HHAH Steering Group was also highlighted in ensuring that the programme continued to evolve and reflect the needs of children, young people and families.

The Committee were advised that robust signposting arrangements were in place across the borough. Information about HHAH activities was promoted through schools, nurseries, Family Hubs and a wide range of partner organisations, with links also being made to wider initiatives including the youth offer and holiday activity programmes. The Interim Director: Education & Skills reported that children who attended the programme once frequently returned for future activities, demonstrating the popularity of the offer and the strength of the partnerships supporting its delivery.

Members were also advised that although HHAH funded places were targeted towards eligible children, many providers offered additional paid places at reasonable rates, helping to create a more inclusive and universal offer whilst enabling children to participate alongside friends regardless of funding eligibility.

The Cabinet Member: Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills invited Members to visit local provision during future holiday periods to see the programme in action and hear directly from children and young people about the positive impact it was having.

Members noted the update.