Parents on benefits can get FREE childcare as major scheme extended for three years – are you missing out?.

Free childcare services for parents on benefits

According to The Sun: Parents receiving benefits can continue to access free childcare services as an important scheme has been extended for three years.

The government will allocate £600 million to continue the Holiday Activities Fund (HAF).

This program is funded by the Department for Education and offers free meals and activities during school holidays.

Local authorities are responsible for administering the program, so offers vary depending on the specific region.

Many of them support families with children who receive free meals through state benefits. However, authorities can also provide assistance to children not in this category.

The HAF program was introduced in England in 2021, following successful pilot projects in 2018-2020.

It has been repeatedly extended, with the latest phase starting in April.

Focus on school-age children

The program primarily targets school-age children, particularly from Reception to Year 11.

This decision is based on research showing that children from low-income families are more likely to miss out on extracurricular activities and are more prone to social isolation.

Andrew Forsey, national director of Feeding Britain, said: 'This brings numerous benefits for children and their families, so it's great news that the government is continuing this program for another three years.'

'Knowing that this support will continue over the next few years will lift a heavy burden from their shoulders.'

Lynn Perry, chief executive of Barnardo's, added: 'That's why we've been advocating for the continuation of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) program – and why we welcome this three-year extension.'

She also noted: 'We, along with these families, need to know that these children will not be at risk of hunger during the holidays, no matter where they live in the country.'

How to apply

The application process and the types of assistance available depend on your location.

For instance, the Ealing council runs workshops during Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays.

Eligible children can receive up to four days of free activities and meals during each holiday period.

Healthy meals, snacks, and a variety of activities such as sports and cooking workshops are offered daily.

If you need further information, email [email protected].

Brent council also has a similar program offering children and young people at least four days of HAF activities during Easter and Christmas.

During the summer holidays, children can access 16 days of activities for 4 hours a day.

What help is available for parents?

Childcare can be expensive. Here’s how you can get help.

• 30 hours of free childcare – Parents of three and four-year-old children can apply for 30 hours of free childcare per week.To qualify, you typically need to work at least 16 hours a week at national minimum wage or the living wage and earn less than £100,000 a year.
• Tax credits – Some families with children under 20 may get help with childcare costs.
• Childcare voucher schemes – If your employer offers voucher schemes, you could save up to £55 a week on taxes and national insurance contributions.You pay for childcare before tax is taken from your salary.This scheme is open to new entrants until October 4, 2018, when tax-free childcare is expected to replace vouchers.
• Tax-free childcare – Available for working families and self-employed; for every £8 you pay in, the government adds another £2.

The expansion of the HAF program highlights a growing focus on the needs of children and families facing difficulties during school holidays. With free activities and meals, children will have the opportunity to improve their social life and avoid hunger. This is an important step towards supporting low-income families and ensuring equal opportunities for all children.

The success of the HAF program demonstrates that government initiatives can have a significant impact on improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations, especially during winter and summer holidays.