The summer holidays are a time for fun, relaxation and making memories, but they can also bring extra costs for families. This year, a range of support is available to help children stay active, well-fed and entertained throughout the break.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme provides additional support for families during school holidays, particularly those on lower incomes.
The programme offers children the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities while enjoying healthy meals in a safe and welcoming environment.
Support available through HAF includes:
- Free healthy meals
- Fun activities such as sports, arts, crafts and trips
- Safe spaces where children can socialise and make new friends
The programme is primarily available for children who receive benefits-related free school meals and is delivered by local councils across England.
Find out what activities and support are available in your area checking with your local council.
👉 Learn more about the HAF Programme:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/holiday-activities-and-food-programme/holiday-activities-and-food-programme-2026-to-2027-financial-year
Free bus travel for children in August
There is more good news for families this summer, with free bus travel available for children aged 5 to 15 throughout August.
The initiative is designed to help families save money while making it easier for children and young people to access activities, attractions and community events during the school holidays.
👉 Learn more:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cost-of-living-boost-with-free-bus-travel-for-children-and-targeted-food-tariff-cuts
Cheaper family days out
A temporary reduction in VAT is helping to make summer activities more affordable for families.
The VAT rate on a range of child-focused leisure activities has been reduced from 20% to 5%, helping to lower prices on:
- Children’s restaurant meals
- Theatre tickets
- Cinema tickets
- Soft play centres
- Amusement parks
- Museums and attractions
Reduced prices will be applied automatically, helping families enjoy more affordable days out over the summer.
More cost of living support
There are a number of other measures available to help households manage everyday costs. Find more information about wider support available this summer: Summer Savings – Cost of Living Help
