Holidays Are Fun annual report 2025 to 2026

All providers delivering the Holidays Are Fun (HAF) programme during 2025 to 2026 worked closely with the local authority to ensure appropriate signposting and referral pathways were available for families and their children. Providers displayed information on site, distributed leaflets and flyers, and in some cases created information folders containing details of local services for families to access.

Referrals were made for a range of support, including early help services, free beds, food supplies, Christmas hampers, supermarket vouchers, bus passes, and specific practical items. Many providers are embedded within their local communities and actively source donations, including clothing, toys, and sports equipment, which they are able to pass on to families experiencing hardship.

The Stockton-on-Tees HAF team is based in Education, Inclusion and Achievement within Children's Services, enabling close collaboration with colleagues across School Support, Help and Support, and Social Care. The HAF team provides information and advice to professionals working directly with families to help identify and secure the most appropriate activities for vulnerable children and young people.