Brighton: Free School Holidays Meals & Activities Over Christmas

Children of families that need financial support over the Christmas holidays can take part in the school holiday programme in the city.

 More than 500 children and teenagers in Brighton & Hove took part over the summer, prompting the council to offer similar services over the Christmas school holidays.

The Winter 2021 Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is for children and young people aged 4 to 16 who are in full-time education and receive benefits-related free school meals.

It's funded by the Department for Education and delivered by Brighton & Hove City Council together with a range of local organisations. 

Eighteen playschemes, gyms, clubs and community organisations are opening their doors, with meals offered at every location.

Marcus Rashford launched the programme nationally in June with a video encouraging children to take part:

He said:

"It’s very important that children have activities to do during the holidays. I can only go back to my own experiences and what I would have been doing if I didn’t have places my friends and I could go in a safe environment." 

The Christmas holiday programme is entirely free, and runs from Monday 20 December to Friday 24 December, with some activities, along with meals, continuing until 31 December.

Specialist provision is on offer for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, including a Multi Sports Festival at Moulscoomb Leisure Centre on Monday 20 December.

Councillor Hannah Clare, chair of the council's Children, Young People and Skills Committee, said:

“School holidays can be a particularly difficult time for some families due to increased food and childcare costs and reduced incomes. This winter, owing to recent increases in food and energy prices, families are particularly worried about food insecurity, according to new data from The Food Foundation*.”

“HAF offers a safe and supportive environment where children and young people can learn, be active and eat well, as well as make new friends locally.

“We were so happy with the success of the summer and Easter programmes, and hope just as many will get involved during the Christmas school holidays.” 

Fun activities for all ages 

Activities will include fun multi-sports, dance and drama, and will take place at various locations through the city. All children and young people attending will get a free tasty, healthy meal – and learn about healthy eating in a fun, interactive way. 

From cooking to crafts and skateboarding skills, HAF is a chance for children to try something new.

There is also a Christmas party and winter solstice celebrations, with face and pebble painting and other activities.

What parents say

“The Summer Playscheme came at a vital time for our family and really helped us get through the summer.”

“My daughter loved it (Elm Grove Out of School Club) and wants to go back - please keep it going - it's vital for low income single parent families like us”

How to book

If your child receives benefits-related free school meals, please check out the directory of Christmas school holiday activities and book by contacting the provider for the activity you are interested in.

Places are limited, so book quickly to avoid appointment.