As we begin a new school term, we are proud to look back on another successful summer programme with Essex ActivAte, a vital initiative that continues to make a meaningful difference for families and young people across Greater Essex.
Delivered through the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, over 80,000 free spaces were offered to young people who are eligible for income-related free school meals. Across more than 240 holiday clubs, local organisations offered unique and exciting activities, combining physical activity, creative enrichment, and nutritious meals in a safe and welcoming environment.
Local organisations delivered engaging activities, from dance and drama to forest school adventures and outdoor play, inviting children to explore, express themselves, and build connections. Through sports and cooking activities, they gained confidence, learned healthy habits, developed teamwork, and created lasting friendships and memories.
For many families, the programme offered more than just childcare, it provided structure, support, and a sense of community.
A parent explained:
It really has been a life saver for us, as my son has ADHD and this particular club is the only one he will go to as he enjoys the balance of all the activities they do. The staff are amazing with him and keep him busy and for me, knowing he is happy while I work is such peace of mind – I don’t know how I would get through school holidays without the programme!
Parents gave feedback that the programme was a real lifesaver by taking the pressure off financially, easing stress, and giving their kids a safe place to thrive.
Over 90 specialist clubs, including SEND, mental wellbeing, and youth provision, also offered inclusive and supportive environments where young people could take part in accessible, tailored activities. These clubs recognised and celebrated individual strengths, helping children feel valued and connected.
Another parent told us:
It’s an amazing thing to offer the kids, not only for the kids that struggle with school, friendships and so on, but also for the kids that need guidance and direction. It gave them somewhere to go instead of hanging on the street and maybe causing trouble because they or bored or even doing nothing wrong at all but still being judged as if they are just because they are kids. For the parents, we know our kids are safe, looked after, and most of all having a great time.
Across the six weeks, more than 30, enriching community events also welcomed residents, transforming local spaces into hubs of celebration, connection, and fun. Further funding from Essex ActivAte allowed events such as skate jams, family fun days, inflatable activities and community picnics to take place, which brought people together by strengthening family bonds and creating cherished memories that will last long beyond the summer.
As the summer fun wrapped up, we were thrilled to hear about the 3-year extension of the Government’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
Delivered across Greater Essex, Essex ActivAte has already supported over 30,000 children with enriching activities, nutritious meals, and essential holiday support. This extension recognises the programme’s long-term impact and allows us to continue working with schools, community groups, and local partners to deliver inclusive, high-quality holiday provision that supports children’s wellbeing and strengthens families across the county.
We’re proud to keep building on this momentum, and can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings.
Learn more about the Essex ActivAte programme here.
