A COUNCIL-RUN holiday programme helped more than 11,000 children enjoy a fun-filled summer.
Bradford Council’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF), funded by the Department for Education, supported 11,468 children and young people across the district with free activities, healthy meals, and new experiences during the 2026 summer break.
Councillor Sally Birch, executive member for children and families, said: "It is fantastic that more than 11,000 children and young people enjoyed our Holiday Activities and Food programme this summer.
"The school holidays can be a difficult time for some families, so it is important that children have access to fun, safe activities and healthy meals close to home.
"The programme gives children the chance to try new things, make friends, stay active and create happy memories.
"I would like to thank all the schools, community groups, providers, volunteers and staff who helped make this year’s programme such a success."
Bradford Council’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF), funded by the Department for Education, supported 11,468 children and young people across the district with free activities, healthy meals, and new experiences during the 2026 summer break (Image: Supplied)
The scheme offered a wide range of sessions including sports, arts and crafts, music, cooking, outdoor adventures, and nature activities.
Delivered by 134 organisations, the programme aimed to reach children in communities across the Bradford district.
One of the standout providers, Bradford Phab Club, was named Provider of the Year at the Department for Education’s national HAF Awards.
Jacob, a young participant from White Rose Rugby’s HAF sessions, received a regional Young Person of the Year award for his personal development and support for other young people.
The programme included fun days in parks, complete with inflatables, games, dance, and sports activities in ten green spaces across the district.
Outdoor adventure trips to Buckden House in the Yorkshire Dales also proved popular, giving children the opportunity to try climbing, archery, and bushcraft.
The scheme offered a wide range of sessions including sports, arts and crafts, music, cooking, outdoor adventures, and nature activities (Image: Supplied)
The HAF programme is designed to support eligible children and young people during school holidays by offering free, enriching activities and nutritious meals.
HAF holiday clubs will be running again over the Christmas holidays. Bookings will open later this year.
More information about the programme and future sessions is available on the council’s website.