Free summer holiday activities and food programme returning for 2026
Families across Cheshire West and Chester can look forward to another summer of free activities, healthy meals and enriching experiences for eligible children and young people, as the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme prepares to return for Summer 2026.
Edsential work with Cheshire West and Chester Council to deliver the programme of wide ranging and engaging holiday clubs and activities for children aged 5–16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
From sports and outdoor adventures to creative arts, cooking, and team-building activities, the HAF programme, funded by the Department for Education, aims to support children to stay active, social and well-nourished throughout the school holidays.
Last year, thousands of children across the borough enjoyed taking part in the programme, benefiting from safe, supportive environments and nutritious meals during the summer break.
Did you know thousands of children are not registered for free school meals, meaning many families are missing out on valuable support? Checking your eligibility could unlock funding for your child, including free school meals, holiday activities, and nutritious meals during the school holidays - helping to ease financial pressure for families.
Parents and carers are encouraged to check their eligibility now to ensure they don’t miss out: Free school meals | Cheshire West and Chester Council
For further details, including the full timetable of activities and to check eligibility visit www.edsential.com/haf
To book activities from Thursday 25 June from 4pm visit: https://eequ.org/hafcheshirewestandchester
The long summer break can place real strain on families, especially those facing rising food and childcare costs. Through this programme, we’re helping ensure children have access to nutritious meals and meaningful activities, while easing some of that pressure at home.
We’re delighted to be bringing the HAF programme back for another summer, working with fantastic local partners to ensure children across Cheshire West and Chester can access high-quality activities and healthy meals in their communities.
