{{ root_page.title }}
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme FAQ - Tower Hamlets
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme FAQ - Tower Hamlets
Find information about the current summer programme at: Holiday activities and Food provision (HAF)
Welcome to the FAQ page for the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme in Tower Hamlets. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions parents, families, and support workers may have about the HAF programme.
What is the HAF programme?
The HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme is a government-funded initiative designed to provide healthy meals and engaging activities to children and young people during the 3 main school holidays (Easter, Summer and Christmas)
The programme specifically supports families with children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals, which is different to the universal free school meals offered to all children in Tower Hamlets.
Who is eligible for the HAF programme in Tower Hamlets?
The HAF programme is for children and young people aged 4 to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Unlike universal free school meals, which are provided to all children regardless of income, benefits-related free school meals are available only to children whose families receive qualifying benefits.
You will need to apply for benefits-related free school meals via your school or by completing the application form can be found at: Free School Meals
What is a HAF code, and who is eligible to receive one?
A HAF code is a unique identifier provided to each eligible child, allowing them to register for HAF programme activities. Children who receive benefits-related free school meals and who attend a school in Tower Hamlets will be automatically issued a HAF code before each holiday period.
HAF codes are issued by the Council, not schools.
When and how will I receive a HAF code?
Eligible families will receive their HAF code via a letter in the post from the local authority. These codes are usually distributed a few weeks before the start of the holiday period.
Timing: It's important to ensure that your child's registration for benefits-related free school meals is completed well in advance of the holiday period to receive the HAF code on time.
Process: If you haven’t received a HAF code but believe your child is eligible to receive one, you can provide proof that your child receives benefits-related free school meals when booking a space at your HAF club instead.
Proof can be:
- A letter, email or text received from the council or school at the point when your child started receiving benefits-related Free School Meals.
What does it mean if my child has not received a HAF code?
If your child has not received a HAF code this may mean that they have not been registered for benefits-related free school meals. Please check with your child’s school.
If you have changed address or moved school recently, you will need to notify your child’s school to ensure they update your child’s records. Ensure you inform them as early as possible, as it can take some time to be processed and reflected in the system.
Changes made after the HAF code letters have been sent out will mean your child may not receive a letter. If this happens, you should provide proof to your HAF club to show that your child receives benefits-related free school meals.
How do I sign up my child for benefits-related free school meals?
To register your child for benefits-related free school meals (required to receive a HAF code):
Apply Online: Visit the Tower Hamlets Council website Free school meals and complete the application for free school meals. You’ll need to provide details about your income and benefits.
The application form can be found at: Free School Meals
Seek Support: Schools can help you with the application process. Ensure you apply early, as the registration can take some time to be processed and reflected in the system.
Do I need to register each child separately for benefits-related free school meals?
Yes, each child must be registered separately for benefits-related free school meals. This ensures that every eligible child receives their own HAF code. Early registration is crucial to avoid delays.
Siblings are not automatically registered. You must complete a form for each child.
My first child received a HAF code, but my second child did not. Why?
Each child must be individually registered for benefits-related Free School Meals (FSM) in order to receive a Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) code. If your second child did not receive a HAF code, it may be because they are not currently registered for benefits-related FSM. We recommend checking with your child’s school to ensure that they are properly registered for FSM, as eligibility is required for the HAF programme. If your second child is eligible but not yet registered, your school can guide you through the process.
I receive universal credit; do I still need to register my child for benefits-related free school meals?
Yes. Your child must be receiving benefits-related free school meals for your child to be eligible for the HAF programme.
I have recently registered my child for benefits-related free school meals, what should I do now?
You should receive confirmation that confirms that your child has been registered for benefits-related free school meals. You should provide a copy of this confirmation to your club upon registration to access a free space.
Regarding benefits-related free school meals, do I have to tell the council about changes in circumstances?
You also need to inform the council if your circumstances change. For example, you must tell the council if your child changes school, or if you change address. If you change your address, please complete the change of circumstances form or email [email protected].
What types of activities are offered?
The HAF programme provides a variety of activities that promote physical, creative, and social development. These may include sports, arts and crafts, music, drama, cooking, educational workshops, and trips.
Where do the activities take place?
Activities are hosted at various locations across Tower Hamlets, including community centres, schools, and sports facilities. Check the club list for more details.
Is there a cost to participate?
No, the HAF programme is free of charge for eligible children and young people. This includes all activities and meals provided during the programme.
Clubs may charge for non-eligible places.
What kind of meals are provided?
The programme ensures that children receive nutritious and balanced meals. These meals are designed to meet the school food standards and can cater to specific dietary requirements. Please inform the programme providers about any special dietary needs during registration and they will do their best to accommodate needs.
How can I find out more information about specific HAF programmes in my area?
To learn more about specific HAF programmes in Tower Hamlets:
Visit the Holiday activities and Food provision (HAF) for updates and detailed information.
You can also contact local community centres or schools that are participating in the programme or check out the Tower Hamlets Local Offer.
What if my child has additional needs?
For children with additional needs, there are some bespoke provisions that are available to you. Alternatively, options are available to access all the other provisions.
During the registration, parents are requested to declare whether their child has an EHCP. This allows providers to determine whether they can cater to your child’s needs.
We advise you to check the list of activities which states which providers are SEND focused.
Who do I contact if I need support?