Holidays Are Fun annual report 2025 to 2026

A wide range of communications materials were used during 2025 to 2026 to promote the Holidays Are Fun (HAF) programme. This included online, offline and in-person promotion at events, forums and within schools.

A comprehensive communications toolkit was issued to providers to use across digital platforms and email. Additionally, Stockton Borough Council issued news releases and social media posts, and targeted emails were sent directly to parents who had previously accessed HAF, as well as direct communications to staff working with children and families.

Offline promotion included printed leaflets, posters, and pull‑up banners displayed in community venues, alongside adverts on digital screens located on Stockton High Street and within Tees Active leisure venues. Additionally, a direct letter about HAF with a booking QR code was sent to each family in receipt of benefit related free school meals prior to summer holidays.

The programme was also promoted through the Council's website, internal channels such as the all staff weekly newsletter and Children's Social Care newsletter, as well as through regular stakeholder communications to town and parish councils. HAF featured prominently on the Council's cost‑of‑living advice webpage and was regularly included in Stockton-on-Tees News.

In addition, the programme was promoted through the weekly Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) bulletin, enabling local charities and community groups to share information directly with the families they support.