A winter programme of hundreds of exciting activities for eligible children and young people, delivered by local voluntary and community sector organisations, has been announced for over the Christmas holidays.

The Winter Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF) will start from:- 22 December 2025 and is open for families to book the activities they’d like to get involved with now.

Children and young people, from reception to age 16, who are eligible for benefits related free school meals, will be able to access hundreds of activities throughout the Winter holidays including specific provision available for children with SEND or additional needs - at no cost to them.

There’s a great range of festive and non-festive activities across the city including trips to pantomimes, festive arts, crafts, cards and decoration making, Santa’s Grotto, winter wonderland disco, roller skating disco, rave dance, cheerleading, tumbling, zorbing, nerf battles, circus skills, Lego activities, film and jewellery making, basketball,  trampolining and ice skating to name but a few!  A meal is included for every child attending.

Cllr Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Services, said:- “The Holiday Activities and Food programme makes a welcome return this Christmas. From sports and dancing to cooking and DJing with loads more choice in between, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone. Our programme has now become a vital part of many families’ holiday plans, and we know that it is especially valued by parents who may be facing challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis. A very special shout out also needs to go to all the volunteers who also make the programme such a success – their passion and commitment to supporting families in Liverpool really shows the best of our City.”

Colin Heaney, HAF co-ordinator, Merseyside Play Action Council, said:- “Every child has the right to play. The Holiday Activities and Food Programme in Liverpool provides children with the opportunity to take part in a range of free activities that help them grow and develop in a safe and stimulating environment, supported by trained staff and volunteers. The reality is that right across the City, thousands of children and young people will be creating, exploring, debating, sharing, learning, caring, and developing new skills, as well as receiving a healthy meal. Over the winter break, our providers will be delivering activities for children and young people in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.”

There is a central booking system to make it easier for families to find and book activities.

Liverpool City Council is working with Mersey Play Action Council, local schools, voluntary and community organisations, and childcare providers to deliver the Winter HAF programme. This programme is funded by the Department for Education. The Family Information and SEND Directory (FISD) also provides a wealth of useful information and support for families.