Health & Lifestyle | Posted on September 30th, 2025 | return to news

£600m support continues for Dorset families

The Holiday Activities and Food programme has been extended for another three years to help families on benefits.

Free holiday clubs and nutritious meals are on the menu for families across Dorset as The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme has been extended for another three years, backed by £600 million of government funding.

The programme will continue to offer free places to school-aged children from Reception to Year 11 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.

On offer is a wide range of activities including sports, arts and crafts, forest school, and cultural experiences; nutritious meals provided at every session and opportunities for children to make friends, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe environment.

Families can register via the Dorset Council HAF webpage.

Once registered, people will receive a HAF passcode by text or email, which is needed to book free places. If they don’t have a passcode or need to apply for one, they should email their child’s name, date of birth and school they attend to the HAF team: holidayactivities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

The next round of HAF activities will run during the winter holidays, with listings going live on 18 November. Families are encouraged to book early to secure places.

Cllr Sutton, Cabinet member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “The HAF programme has made a real difference in helping children stay healthy, active and connected during the holidays.”