Bromley’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme annual report

The Bromley Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme continues to demonstrate a strong and effective model of delivery, providing consistent support to children, young people, and families throughout the school holidays. Through high levels of participation, strong partnership working, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the programme has successfully delivered meaningful outcomes across the borough.

A key strength of the programme is its collaborative approach, bringing together schools, community organisations, childcare providers, voluntary sector partners, sports clubs, charities, and council services to deliver a coordinated and impactful offer. This partnership approach ensures provision remains accessible, responsive to local need, and aligned with Department for Education (DfE) requirements. The programme continues to provide children and young people with access to nutritious food, enriching activities, physical exercise, and opportunities to develop skills, confidence, and social connections.

The positive impact on families extends beyond holiday provision. Through food support, nutritional education, welfare signposting, and connections to wider community services, the programme has helped to strengthen household resilience and support family wellbeing. Feedback from participants consistently demonstrates the value of the programme, with many families describing it as an essential source of support during periods of financial pressure.

Several notable strengths have emerged during 2025/26. These include the continued development of the programme's food offer, including breakfast provision and take-and-make food boxes. Strong relationships with providers have enabled the delivery of a diverse and high-quality programme across the borough, while increased engagement from secondary-aged young people has broadened the programme's reach and impact.

Looking ahead, the programme remains committed to addressing areas for further development. Expanding provision for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) remains a priority, ensuring that all eligible families can access appropriate and inclusive opportunities. Reducing non-attendance and maximising the utilisation of available places will also be a focus to ensure resources are used as effectively as possible. In addition, the programme will continue to strengthen its family support pathways, building on existing partnerships to provide more integrated and responsive support for families experiencing a range of challenges.

The number of eligible families within the borough has continued to grow year on year, reflecting increasing levels of need. While demand for HAF provision continues to rise, this has coincided with reductions in grant allocations in recent years, creating additional pressures on programme delivery and future expansion.

To address these challenges, Bromley Council is actively exploring options to support the long-term sustainability of the programme. Whether through continued Department for Education funding, partnership contributions, external grant opportunities, or innovative delivery models, the HAF team remains committed to securing the future of the programme.

By maintaining strong partnerships, investing in quality provision, and responding to the changing needs of local families, Bromley's HAF Programme is well positioned to continue delivering positive outcomes and life-enhancing opportunities for children and young people across the borough.