Skip to content

Inclusive activities for the April holidays - including HAF

Published
Find out about upcoming events designed for you and your family during the upcoming April holidays. The Holidays Activities Fund (HAF) and Holidays Activities Programme (HAP) also details how to register for their exciting programmes, whilst the SEND Community Connector team highlights the support they are able to give to SEND families booking on HAF and HAP.
Woman supporting two primary-aged children with Springtime crafting

There is a variety of inclusive activities for children and young people with SEND around the county during the school and college holidays in April.

From inclusive events at the Family and Youth Hubs events to events specifically for young people aged 18-25 (as you have let us know that this can often be a gap), please see a selection below and visit the calendar on Gloucestershire's Local Offer, Support for Families with SEND for more details as well as You're Welcome, who detail a variety of inclusive activities around the county:

Young people aged 18-25

Not to forget activities for those over 18, the team at You're Welcome detail a variety of inclusive activities around the county:

Are you ready for Spring HAF?

The Holiday Activity and Food programme (HAF) returns this spring with lots of fun activities and delicious food available for children and families from Saturday 28 March.

HAF activities are available for children and young people who receive benefits-related free school meals. This Spring we are also able to extend this offer to any child who may benefit from attending the programme, through our grant funded Holiday Activities Programme (HAP).

Activities will be available for viewing from midday on Wednesday, 18 March. Bookings go live at midday on Monday, 23 March. Make sure you’re ready to book by checking your Family Hubs account now. Visit the Family Hub website and booking system here. Use our handy checklist below to make sure that:

  • All children have an individual profile added to your account.
  • Emergency contact details are filled in for each child taking part in activities.
  • Any Special Education Needs and Disability information is included for each child taking part in activities.
  • Your details reflect any recent changes (e.g. new address, phone contact details).

Keeping child profiles up to date helps ensure smooth bookings and the best support for your child. A complete and up to date profile means:

  • Faster bookings
  • Better support for your children
  • Fewer delays or issues during HAF sessions

HAF provides free holiday clubs during school holidays (Easter, summer, Christmas) for children who receive benefits-related free school meals.

Some think there’s a long application process (usually it’s just booking a place).

Many families are eligible without needing to complete a new benefits claim — if their child receives benefits-related free school meals, they likely qualify. Children with SEND are a priority group under both the HAF and HAP schemes and the SEND Community Connectors will help families.

HAF Spring poster with images promoting booking opening from midday on 23 March 2026

SEND Community Connectors

For both HAF and HAP programmes, SEND families are offered transport assistance, one to one support and alternative food arrangements if required They can ensure priority booking for children with SEND BEFORE bookings are open to the public. 

For more information on SEND Community Connectors, please contact the HAF / HAP SEND Community Connectors via haf@parentandcareralliance.org.uk, or visit the relevant pages on  Gloucestershire's Local Offer, Support for Families with SEND for more details.

Glosfamilies Directory | Holiday Activities & Food Programme (HAF)

 

Back to newsletter