# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You can get up to £500 every 3 months (up to £2,000 a year) for each of your children to help with the costs of childcare. This goes up to £1,000 every 3 months if a child is disabled (up to £4,000 a year).

If you get Tax-Free Childcare, you'll set up an online childcare account for your child. For every £8 you pay into this account, the government will pay in £2 to use to pay your provider.

You can get Tax-Free Childcare at the same time as 15 or 30 hours free childcare if you're eligible for both.

What you can use Tax-Free Childcare for

You can use it to pay for approved childcare, for example:

childminders, nurseries and nannies

after school clubs and play schemes

Your childcare provider must be signed up to the scheme before you can pay them and benefit from Tax-Free Childcare.

Check with your provider to see if they're signed up.

If your child is disabled

You can use the extra Tax-Free Childcare money you get to help pay for extra hours of childcare. You can also use it to help pay your childcare provider so they can get specialist equipment for your child such as mobility aids. Talk to them about what equipment your child can get.

If your childcare provider is in an EEA country

You may be able to use Tax-Free Childcare to pay a provider based in a European Economic Area (EEA) country. Contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to check.

Eligibility

Your eligibility depends on:

whether you're working (employed, self-employed, or a director)

your income (and your partner's income, if you have one)

your child's age and circumstances

your immigration status

If you're working

You can usually get Tax-Free Childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are:

in work

on sick leave or annual leave

on shared parental, maternity, paternity or adoption leave and you're going back to work within 31 days of the date you first applied

If you're not currently working

You may still be eligible if your partner is working and you get any of the following:

Incapacity Benefit

Severe Disablement Allowance

Carer's Allowance or (in Scotland only) Carer Support Payment

contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance

You can apply if you're starting or re-starting work within the next 31 days.

Your income

Over the next 3 months you and your partner (if you have one) must each expect to earn at least:

£2,379 if you're aged 21 or over

£1,788 if you're aged 18 to 20

£1,331 if you're under 18 or an apprentice

This is the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week on average.

You can use an average of how much you expect to earn over the current tax year if:

you work throughout the year but do not get paid regularly

you're self-employed and do not expect to earn enough in the next 3 months

Example

You're eligible if you're 21 or over and do not have a regular income but earn £9,518 a year. This is the same as earning £2,379 every 3 months on average.

If you're self-employed and started your business less than 12 months ago, you can earn less and still be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare.

If you have more than one job, you can use your total earnings to work out if you meet the threshold. This includes:

earnings from any employment

earnings from any self-employment

If you're both employed and self-employed, you can use just your self-employment income if this would make you eligible. For example, if you expect your average self-employed earnings over the tax year to be more than you'll get over the next 3 months as an employee.

Certain types of income will not count towards the minimum amount you must earn to be eligible.

These include:

dividends

interest

income from investing in property

pension payments

If you or your partner have an expected ' adjusted net income ' over £100,000 in the current tax year, you will not be eligible.

Your child

Your child must be 11 or under and usually live with you. They stop being eligible on 1 September after their 11th birthday.

Adopted children are eligible, but foster children are not.

If your child is disabled and usually lives with you, you may get up to £4,000 a year until 1 September after their 16th birthday. They're eligible for this if they:

get Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Armed Forces Independence Payment, Child Disability Payment (Scotland only) or Adult Disability Payment (Scotland only)

are certified as blind or severely sight-impaired

Your immigration status

To be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare, you must have a National Insurance number and at least one of the following:

British or Irish citizenship

settled or pre-settled status, or you have applied and you're waiting for a decision

permission to access public funds - your UK residence card will tell you if you cannot do this

If you have a partner, they must have a National Insurance number too.

If you're living in an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you (or your partner if you have one) might still be eligible for Tax-Free Childcare if:

your work is in the UK

the work started before 1 January 2021

you've worked in the UK at least once every 12 months since you started working here

This is known as being a 'frontier worker'. You must show your Frontier Worker permit to the Childcare Service when you apply for Tax-Free Childcare.

If you get tax credits, Universal Credit, a childcare bursary or grant, or childcare vouchers

You cannot get Tax-Free Childcare at the same time as claiming Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit or childcare vouchers.

Which scheme you're better off with depends on your situation. Use the childcare calculator to work out which type of support is best for you.

Tax credits

If you successfully apply for Tax-Free Childcare, your Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit will stop straight away. You cannot apply for them again.

Childcare vouchers

You must tell your employer within 90 days of applying for Tax-Free Childcare to stop your childcare vouchers or directly contracted childcare.

They'll then stop the vouchers or directly contracted childcare.

You may have to give HMRC evidence of leaving the childcare voucher scheme. For example, a copy of the letter telling your employer you're leaving the childcare voucher scheme.

If you have a partner who gets vouchers or directly contracted childcare, they'll need to tell their employer to stop this within 90 days too.

Universal Credit

Wait until you get a decision on your Tax-Free Childcare application before cancelling your Universal Credit claim.

Bursaries

If you or your partner get a childcare bursary or grant or expect to do so within the next 3 months, you cannot get Tax-Free Childcare.

Apply
Apply online for Tax-Free Childcare
If you apply for Tax-Free Childcare and someone else already gets free childcare for that child, their 15 or 30 hours will stop at the end of the next term. You will be eligible for 15 or 30 hours free childcare instead.

If you have a partner

You must include your partner in your application if you are:

married or in a civil partnership and live together

not married or in a civil partnership, but living together as though you are

Their employment and income will not affect your eligibility if they:

are or will be absent from your household for more than 6 months

are a prisoner

You and your partner cannot both have accounts for the same child.

If you are separated

You and your ex-partner need to decide who should apply if you are jointly responsible for your child.

If you cannot decide, both of you must apply separately and HMRC will decide who gets a childcare account.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What Tax-Free Childcare is, eligibility and how to apply

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find a dentist near you on the NHS website. Check your local dentist's opening times, services, facilities, reviews and ratings.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Primary and secondary Get Set to Eat Fresh resources specially selected for HAF facilitators.

Get Set to Eat Fresh, a free education programme from Aldi, Team GB and ParalympicsGB, helps young people aged 5-14 develop their understanding and love of fresh, healthy food, the skills they need to cook for themselves and the desire to celebrate good food with friends and family. To support Holiday Activities and Food Programme facilitators over the Christmas holidays, we've specially collated a range of our resources which support resilience, character and wellbeing and provide enriching activities to deepen their knowledge of health, nutrition and active lifestyles.

Key questions

How can we build balanced, healthy meals?

How can we develop our cooking skills?

What foods fuel Team GB, ParalympicsGB, and ourselves to great performances?

How can we shop mindfully of budget and food waste?

Key learnings

Describing the key features of a healthy diet.

The benefits of exercise and eating a balance of different foods for athletes and ourselves.

Ways to express likes and dislikes and make informed, healthy decisions about food, exercise and other healthy habits.

Cooking skills and techniques, including knife skills, that can be practised and developed over time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Get Set to Eat Fresh with Aldi | Holiday Activities and Food Programme resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get Set to Eat Fresh, a free education programme from Aldi, Team GB and ParalympicsGB, helps young people aged 5-14 develop their understanding and love of fresh, healthy food, the skills they need to cook for themselves and the desire to celebrate good food with friends and family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Curriculum
Supports the Relationships Education and Health Education statutory guidance Respectful relationships

about different types of bullying (including cyberbullying), the impact of bullying, responsibilities of bystanders (primarily reporting bullying to an adult) and how to get help
Online relationships

that the same principles apply to online relationships as to face-to-face relationships, including the importance of respect for others online including when we are anonymous

the rules and principles for keeping safe online, how to recognise risks, harmful content and contact, and how to report them

Mental wellbeing

that bullying (including cyberbullying) has a negative and often lasting impact on mental wellbeing

Internet safety and harms

that the internet can also be a negative place where online abuse, trolling, bullying and harassment can take place, which can have a negative impact on mental health

how to consider the effect of their online actions on others and know how to recognise and display respectful behaviour online and the importance of keeping personal information private

Supports the PSHE curriculum KS2
Core theme 1: Health and Wellbeing

H20 - strategies to respond to feelings, including intense or conflicting feelings; how to manage and respond to feelings appropriately and proportionately in different situations

H42 - about the importance of keeping personal information private; strategies for keeping safe online, including how to manage requests for personal information or images of themselves and others; what to do if frightened or worried by something seen or read online and how to report concerns, inappropriate content and contact

Core theme 2: Relationships

R18 - to recognise if a friendship (online or offline) is making them feel unsafe or uncomfortable; how to manage this and ask for support if necessary

R19 - about the impact of bullying, including offline and online, and the consequences of hurtful behaviour

R20 - strategies to respond to hurtful behaviour experienced or witnessed, offline and online (including teasing, name-calling, bullying, trolling, harassment or the deliberate excluding of others); how to report concerns and get support

R21 - about discrimination: what it means and how to challenge it

R22 - about privacy and personal boundaries; what is appropriate in friendships and wider relationships (including online)

R23 - about why someone may behave differently online, including pretending to be someone they are not; strategies for recognising risks, harmful content and contact; how to report concerns

R30 - that personal behaviour can affect other people; to recognise and model respectful behaviour online

Core Theme 3: Living in the wider world

L11 - recognise ways in which the internet and social media can be used both positively and negatively

L15 - recognise things appropriate to share and things that should not be shared on social media; rules surrounding distribution of images

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bullying and cyberbullying - Year 6 lesson plan | PHE School Zone

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Supports the Relationships Education and Health Education statutory guidance Respectful relationships about different types of bullying (including cyberbullying), the impact of bullying, responsibilities of bystanders (primarily reporting bullying to an adult) and how to get help Online relationships that the same principles apply to online relationships as to face-to-face relationships,

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

FILM DISCUSSION POINTS

Watch our Athlete Nutrition film.

What kinds of food do different athletes need to eat to help them perform?

Which nutrients play a big role in an athlete's diet?

What could you learn from how athletes eat, and use in your own diet?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Get Set to Eat Fresh with Aldi | EAT WELL WITH TEAM GB

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NHS health apps - supporting your health and wellbeing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NHS health apps - find out about lots of apps and tools from the NHS which can help support your health and wellbeing goals

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mental wellbeing | Overview | PHE School Zone

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Supporting families in poverty this winter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS_ Reducing food costs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS_ Free and low-cost fun activities for children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Overview

This document provides information for local authorities delivering the holiday activities and food programme in 2021.

On 8 November 2020, the government announced that the holiday activities and food programme will be expanded across the whole of England in 2021. The programme has provided healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children since 2018.

The programme will cover the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays in 2021.

We will make up to £220 million available to local authorities to coordinate free holiday provision, including healthy food and enriching activities. The programme will be available to children in every local authority in England.

Background

School holidays can be particular pressure points for some families because of increased costs (such as food and childcare) and reduced incomes. For some children that can lead to a holiday experience gap, with children from disadvantaged families:

Free holiday clubs are a response to this issue and evidence suggests that they can have a positive impact on children and young people and that they work best when they:

Who the programme is for

This holiday provision is for children who receive benefits-related free school meals.

Local authorities are asked to ensure that the offer of free holiday club provision is available for all children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals in their area. This does not mean they are all required to attend as the provision is voluntary.

The free holiday club places must be targeted at children who are eligible for and receiving benefits-related free school meals.

We also encourage local authorities to make the holiday clubs available to any children not eligible for and in receipt of free school meals, who can pay to attend. This might be through operating:

Other children and families with need

Local authorities must get written approval from us to use their funding to provide free or subsidised holiday club places for children who are not in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.

We'll consider requests to use up to 15% of your programme funding to provide places for children who are considered by the local authority as vulnerable or in need of this provision. This may include, for example:

children assessed as being in need

looked-after children

children with an EHC plan (education, health and care)

children assessed as otherwise vulnerable

children living in areas of high deprivation

You must be able to demonstrate that you are:

offering the programme comprehensively across the full geographical area

fully meeting demand from free school meal eligible children in the area

Aims of the programme

As a result of this programme, we want children who attend this provision to:

eat more healthily over the school holidays

be more active during the school holidays

take part in engaging and enriching activities which support the development of resilience, character and wellbeing along with their wider educational attainment

be safe and not to be socially isolated

have a greater knowledge of health and nutrition

be more engaged with school and other local services

We also want to ensure that the families who participate in this programme:

develop their understanding of nutrition and food budgeting

are signposted towards other information and support, for example, health, employment and education

What's involved

Some local authorities may coordinate it themselves, and others may choose to work with another organisation to coordinate the provision on their behalf.

We recognise and greatly value the important role that community and voluntary organisations have played in this programme over the last 3 years. We encourage all local authorities to work with a wide range of partners in the delivery of this programme.

Where local authorities work with community and voluntary organisations whether as a coordinator or as a delivery partner, we expect this to be done on a cost-recovery basis. This is so that these organisations are fully funded for the work they undertake.

Coordination of local programmes

The role of coordinating this holiday provision involves:

mapping the holiday provision in your area in order to ensure that holiday provision exists and is supporting the areas of greatest need

establishing a steering group to support implementation and delivery that should include representatives from a wide range of local bodies, including:

local police and other uniform services

local public health officials

school leaders

youth services

social services

charities and the voluntary sector

drawing in wider support to enhance the local programme, for example bringing in funding from other sources such as philanthropists, sponsors, food providers as well as supermarkets and local businesses

developing a local plan for provision in your area, based on what you know about local supply and demand

ensuring that sufficient, adequate provision is available across your area for children with SEND or additional needs

awarding funding to holiday club providers in order to ensure there is enough provision to meet demand

supporting all providers to meet our framework of minimum standards including:

safeguarding requirements

meals that meet school food standards

supporting all providers to improve the quality of their provision

working with families to reduce dependency by providing nutritional education for children and educating families around purchasing and preparing healthy meals on a sustainable basis

promoting and advertising provision, including working with local schools and other agencies to encourage the most at need children to attend

working with other local services or agencies to ensure a joined-up and efficient approach, for example, signposting and sharing resources

building local partnerships and sharing learning and good practice among local partners

Some areas will already have well-developed models for coordinating holiday provision and may not need to take all of these steps.

Funding

Local authorities will receive grant funding to deliver the holiday activities and food programme in their area.

Our grant funding is informed by the:

numbers of children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals in your area

overall levels of participation experienced in our previous programmes from 2018 to 2020

What the funding covers

The funding local authorities receive is to cover the:

provision of free holiday places

coordination of the programme locally

The aim of the programme is to make free places available to children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals for the equivalent of at least 4 hours a day, 4 days a week, 6 weeks a year.

This would cover 4 weeks in the summer and a week's worth of provision in each of the Easter and Christmas holidays in 2021.

Local authorities and their providers will have flexibility about how they deliver this level of provision to best serve the needs of children and families in their area. There will also be flexibility in how the programme can be delivered to older children.

Example

In the Christmas and Easter holidays, local areas could spread a week's worth of provision across a 2-week period.

In the summer, you may wish to spread the equivalent number of hours over a longer period.

Families may be eligible for tax-free childcare or the childcare costs element of Universal Credit, through which families may be able to claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs.

Administrative costs

We know that there are administrative costs associated with setting up and running the holiday activities and food programme and ensuring you have sufficient staff.

As set out in the grant determination letter, we expect that local authorities will not spend more than 10% of the total funding allocated on the costs associated with running the programme.

The remaining 90% should be used to fund places for children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals. This 90% can be used flexibly.

Funding can be used to support:

a comprehensive, inclusive and accessible offer, for example:

setting up new provision where needed

paying for additional staff to expand existing provision

paying for additional staff to meet additional needs

quality improvement, for example:

bringing in activity providers such as sports coaches

establishing partnerships with catering organisations

Purchasing equipment

Funding can also be used to purchase equipment for the programme, for example, to improve the catering or sports equipment at an individual club. However, programme funding can only be used where this meets our criteria for capital expenditure. The amount you spend on this should be limited to 2% of your overall programme expenditure.

Capital expenditure is classed as:

Any equipment that does not meet this criteria, will not be classed as captial expenditure or be subject to the 2% cap.

Payments and reporting

Local authorities will be responsible for gathering management information from the providers and clubs they fund about the children and families they are supporting. Following each holiday period (Easter, summer and Christmas) we will ask local authorities to report on their activity over the holiday period.

The requirements for local authorities are set out in the grant determination letter which we will use to monitor performance at a high level.

Local authorities can set other performances indicators to measure their own performance or that of partners.

Payment schedule

March 2021

Payments made upon satisfactory receipt of a delivery plan from the local authority by 19 February 2021. The plan sets out the intended scale and reach of their programme for Easter 2021.

June 2021

Payments of up to 50% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 14 May 2021 of:

a report detailing the delivery of the programme at Easter 2021

a delivery plan for summer 2021

November 2021

Payments of up to 30% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 15 October 2021 of:

a report detailing the delivery of the programme in summer 2021

a delivery plan for Christmas 2021

February 2022

Payments of up to 20% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 29 January 2022 of:

Data collection

The reports will include data on children attending clubs in each local authority area.

All of the data and information collected by the holiday clubs and providers should all be collected in strict adherence to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Evaluation

An evaluation will be undertaken this year to evaluate the impact the programme has had and will focus on delivery across the summer.

This will be undertaken by a national provider and will be subject to a tendering process.

We expect all local authorities to cooperate with the evaluation of the holiday activities and food programme.

Support for local authorities

Our programme implementation team will support local authorities in delivering the holiday activities and food programme, focusing initially on the Easter holidays.

Each local authority will have access to a named contact who they will be able to contact with queries and requests for support. As part of the package of support, group meetings, regular communications and the sharing of resources will be promoted and facilitated.

We are also procuring a national support contract which will be in place from April 2021 to provide support, advisory and performance monitoring services to assist local authorities with ensuring holiday provision for school-age children.

We encourage local authorities to work closely with neighbouring local authorities and to establish clear cross border working protocols. This will help to ensure that adequate provision and support is offered to children from surrounding local authorities.

Standards for holiday provision

We have developed a framework of standards to provide a benchmark of what we expect from those delivering the holiday activities and food programme.

One of the key elements of the role of a holiday activities and food programme coordinator will be to:

improve the quality of provision across the local area

ensure that providers are supported to meet the high-level standards

Programme coordinators will be able to award funding to providers that don't meet the standards at the start of the grant period as long as they put a specific plan in place to ensure that the standards are met before the start of the holidays.

We expect all providers who are funded through the holiday activities and food programme to meet our framework of standards.

Framework of standards

These are the standards we expect for 2021 providers.

Food

Providers must provide at least one meal a day (breakfast, lunch or tea) and all food provided at the holiday club (including snacks) must meet school food standards.

Our expectation is that the majority of food served by providers will be hot. However, we acknowledge that there will be occasions when this is not possible and a cold alternative may be used.

All food provided as part of the programme must:

comply with regulations on food preparation:

take into account allergies and dietary requirements (see the allergy guidance for schools

take into account any religious or cultural requirements for food

Enriching activities

Holiday clubs must provide fun and enriching activities that provide children with opportunities to:

This could include:

Local authorities should set out how they can support providers to deliver a rich and varied mix of fun and enriching activities that are age-appropriate. We welcome bids that have also considered how they might encourage the continued use of fine motor skills over the holiday periods.

Physical activities

Holiday clubs must provide activities that meet the physical activity guidelines on a daily basis.

Nutritional education

Providers must include an element of nutritional education each day aimed at improving the knowledge and awareness of healthy eating for children. These do not need to be formal learning activities and could for example include activities such as:

Food education for families and carers

Providers must include at least weekly training and advice sessions for parents, carers or other family members. These should provide advice on how to source, prepare and cook nutritious and low-cost food.

Signposting and referrals

Holiday clubs must be able to provide information, signposting or referrals to other services and support that would benefit the children who attend their provision and their families. This could include sessions provided by:

Citizen's Advice

school nurses, dentists or other healthcare practitioners

family support services or children's services

housing support officers

Jobcentre Plus

organisations providing financial education

Policies and procedures

There are a wide variety of organisations and individuals involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme including but not limited to:

As set out in the grant determination letter, all of these groups must be able to demonstrate and explain the safeguarding procedures and checks that they have in place for the holiday activities and food programme.

They must have relevant and appropriate policies and procedures for:

safeguarding, including the recruitment of staff and volunteers

health and safety

relevant insurance policies

accessibility and inclusiveness

Where appropriate, holiday clubs must also be compliant with the Ofsted requirements for working with children.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility. We want every holiday club to be a safe and happy place for children to be and for parents, carers and families to feel confident that their child is well looked after and that robust safeguarding arrangements are in place.

Local authorities are statutorily responsible for safeguarding in relation to children in need, under s.17 of the Children Act 1989, and looked after children under s.20 of the Children Act 1989.

As set out in working together to safeguard children, safeguarding is defined for the purposes of this guidance as:

protecting children from maltreatment

preventing impairment of children's mental and physical health or development

ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care

taking action if you identify children to be at risk of harm

Local authorities should ensure that their local safeguarding partners understand the holiday activities and food programme and those working on the delivery of the programme are familiar with the working together to safeguard children guidance.

There are a number of accredited organisations who can provide safeguarding and child protection training courses for those involved in working with children. We expect local authorities to be able to demonstrate that those involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in their area are competent and have received adequate training and support.

Holiday clubs in school settings

We know that schools are safe places and have robust safeguarding arrangements in place.

Where activities are provided by the governing body or proprietor of a school, under the direct supervision or management of their school staff the school's child protection policy will apply.

Where the activities are provided separately by another body, the governing body or proprietor should seek assurance that the body concerned has appropriate safeguarding and child protection policies and procedure in place.

We recommend that anyone involved in the delivery of a holiday club in school settings is familiar with part 1 of keeping children safe in education.

Holiday clubs in out of school settings

By out-of-school settings we mean organisations or individuals that provide tuition, training, instruction or activities to children in England without their parents' or carers' supervision, but are not:

schools

colleges

education settings providing alternative provision

16 to 19 academies

providers caring for children that are registered with Ofsted or a childminder agency

These settings generally provide tuition, training, instruction or activities outside normal school hours (for example, evenings, weekends, school holidays), although some settings are run part-time during school hours to help meet the needs of those in home education.

The guidance for providers running out-of-school settings on keeping children safe during community activities, after-school clubs and tuition covers advice on what policies and procedures providers should have in place for health and safety, safeguarding and child protection, staff suitability, and governance.

Volunteers

We know that in some settings, volunteers can play an important role in the delivery of holiday clubs.

Under no circumstances should a volunteer in respect of whom no checks have been obtained be left unsupervised or allowed to work in regulated activity.

For some of the voluntary staff involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in holiday clubs, this work will be done regularly and considered to be regulated activity. This means they will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check with barred list information.

There may be a very small number of volunteers who do not regularly carry out this role, and so it may not be considered as regulated activity. This means they may not be required to have an enhanced DBS check.

The guidance on regulated activity in relation to children contains definitions of what we mean by regular and regulated activity.

Example

A guest speaker or presenter visits a holiday activities and food programme club to deliver a talk on nature.

The guest is escorted by staff at the club (who are DBS checked) while on the premises and is not left unsupervised with children at any time. In these circumstances, we would not expect a DBS check to be carried out.

To provide reassurance to parents, families and carers, we strongly recommend that all volunteers who are involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in holiday clubs should have an enhanced DBS check (which, where applicable, should include children's barred list information).

We do not recommend holiday clubs using volunteers that are not DBS checked, but if this occurs, it is the responsibility of the local authority to ensure that volunteers are not left alone and unsupervised with children in holiday clubs.

Other workers

All staff who are employed by holiday club providers funded through the holiday activities and food programme should be subject to an enhanced DBS check with barred list information.

Part 3 of keeping children safe in education sets out a clear process for safe recruitment. We recommend local authorities and holiday cubs providers follow this best practice when recruiting volunteers.

Ofsted registration

Holiday clubs may need to register with Ofsted but it is not a requirement for clubs and providers participating in the holiday activities and food programme. Guidance on the exemptions to Ofsted registration is available.

Families may be eligible for tax free childcare or the childcare costs element of Universal Credit. Through this families may be able to claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs if they are attending and paying for extra childcare at Ofsted registered settings.

The delivery of the programme at Easter could potentially be impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19). Face-to-face delivery of holiday clubs may not be possible in the local authority's area and remote delivery of the programme may, in some circumstances, be more viable.

If the local authority cannot hold face-to-face holiday clubs as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19), the local authority may operate flexibly to ensure that eligible children still receive the type of support detailed in the aims of the programme.

For example, this may involve children receiving food parcels that provide healthy meals and activity packs along with access to online support if they are unable to congregate in holiday clubs due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our programme implementation team will work with local authorities to keep them up to date on the impact of changes as the programme progresses.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Holiday activities and food programme 2021

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This document provides information for local authorities delivering the holiday activities and food programme in 2021. On 8 November 2020, the government announced that the holiday activities and food programme will be expanded across the whole of England in 2021. The programme has provided healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children since 2018.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Overview

This document provides information for local authorities delivering the holiday activities and food programme in 2021.

On 8 November 2020, the government announced that the holiday activities and food programme will be expanded across the whole of England in 2021. The programme has provided healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children since 2018.

The programme will cover the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays in 2021.

We will make up to £220 million available to local authorities to coordinate free holiday provision, including healthy food and enriching activities. The programme will be available to children in every local authority in England.

Background

School holidays can be particular pressure points for some families because of increased costs (such as food and childcare) and reduced incomes. For some children that can lead to a holiday experience gap, with children from disadvantaged families:

Free holiday clubs are a response to this issue and evidence suggests that they can have a positive impact on children and young people and that they work best when they:

Who the programme is for

This holiday provision is for children who receive benefits-related free school meals.

Local authorities are asked to ensure that the offer of free holiday club provision is available for all children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals in their area. This does not mean they are all required to attend as the provision is voluntary.

The free holiday club places must be targeted at children who are eligible for and receiving benefits-related free school meals.

We also encourage local authorities to make the holiday clubs available to any children not eligible for and in receipt of free school meals, who can pay to attend. This might be through operating:

Other children and families with need

Local authorities must get written approval from us to use their funding to provide free or subsidised holiday club places for children who are not in receipt of benefits-related free school meals.

We'll consider requests to use up to 15% of your programme funding to provide places for children who are considered by the local authority as vulnerable or in need of this provision. This may include, for example:

children assessed as being in need

looked-after children

children with an EHC plan (education, health and care)

children assessed as otherwise vulnerable

children living in areas of high deprivation

You must be able to demonstrate that you are:

offering the programme comprehensively across the full geographical area

fully meeting demand from free school meal eligible children in the area

Aims of the programme

As a result of this programme, we want children who attend this provision to:

eat more healthily over the school holidays

be more active during the school holidays

take part in engaging and enriching activities which support the development of resilience, character and wellbeing along with their wider educational attainment

be safe and not to be socially isolated

have a greater knowledge of health and nutrition

be more engaged with school and other local services

We also want to ensure that the families who participate in this programme:

develop their understanding of nutrition and food budgeting

are signposted towards other information and support, for example, health, employment and education

What's involved

Some local authorities may coordinate it themselves, and others may choose to work with another organisation to coordinate the provision on their behalf.

We recognise and greatly value the important role that community and voluntary organisations have played in this programme over the last 3 years. We encourage all local authorities to work with a wide range of partners in the delivery of this programme.

Where local authorities work with community and voluntary organisations whether as a coordinator or as a delivery partner, we expect this to be done on a cost-recovery basis. This is so that these organisations are fully funded for the work they undertake.

Coordination of local programmes

The role of coordinating this holiday provision involves:

mapping the holiday provision in your area in order to ensure that holiday provision exists and is supporting the areas of greatest need

establishing a steering group to support implementation and delivery that should include representatives from a wide range of local bodies, including:

local police and other uniform services

local public health officials

school leaders

youth services

social services

charities and the voluntary sector

drawing in wider support to enhance the local programme, for example bringing in funding from other sources such as philanthropists, sponsors, food providers as well as supermarkets and local businesses

developing a local plan for provision in your area, based on what you know about local supply and demand

ensuring that sufficient, adequate provision is available across your area for children with SEND or additional needs

awarding funding to holiday club providers in order to ensure there is enough provision to meet demand

supporting all providers to meet our framework of minimum standards including:

safeguarding requirements

meals that meet school food standards

supporting all providers to improve the quality of their provision

working with families to reduce dependency by providing nutritional education for children and educating families around purchasing and preparing healthy meals on a sustainable basis

promoting and advertising provision, including working with local schools and other agencies to encourage the most at need children to attend

working with other local services or agencies to ensure a joined-up and efficient approach, for example, signposting and sharing resources

building local partnerships and sharing learning and good practice among local partners

Some areas will already have well-developed models for coordinating holiday provision and may not need to take all of these steps.

Funding

Local authorities will receive grant funding to deliver the holiday activities and food programme in their area.

Our grant funding is informed by the:

numbers of children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals in your area

overall levels of participation experienced in our previous programmes from 2018 to 2020

What the funding covers

The funding local authorities receive is to cover the:

provision of free holiday places

coordination of the programme locally

The aim of the programme is to make free places available to children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals for the equivalent of at least 4 hours a day, 4 days a week, 6 weeks a year.

This would cover 4 weeks in the summer and a week's worth of provision in each of the Easter and Christmas holidays in 2021.

Local authorities and their providers will have flexibility about how they deliver this level of provision to best serve the needs of children and families in their area. There will also be flexibility in how the programme can be delivered to older children.

Example

In the Christmas and Easter holidays, local areas could spread a week's worth of provision across a 2-week period.

In the summer, you may wish to spread the equivalent number of hours over a longer period.

Families may be eligible for tax-free childcare or the childcare costs element of Universal Credit, through which families may be able to claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs.

Administrative costs

We know that there are administrative costs associated with setting up and running the holiday activities and food programme and ensuring you have sufficient staff.

As set out in the grant determination letter, we expect that local authorities will not spend more than 10% of the total funding allocated on the costs associated with running the programme.

The remaining 90% should be used to fund places for children eligible for and in receipt of free school meals. This 90% can be used flexibly.

Funding can be used to support:

a comprehensive, inclusive and accessible offer, for example:

setting up new provision where needed

paying for additional staff to expand existing provision

paying for additional staff to meet additional needs

quality improvement, for example:

bringing in activity providers such as sports coaches

establishing partnerships with catering organisations

Purchasing equipment

Funding can also be used to purchase equipment for the programme, for example, to improve the catering or sports equipment at an individual club. However, programme funding can only be used where this meets our criteria for capital expenditure. The amount you spend on this should be limited to 2% of your overall programme expenditure.

Capital expenditure is classed as:

Any equipment that does not meet this criteria, will not be classed as captial expenditure or be subject to the 2% cap.

Payments and reporting

Local authorities will be responsible for gathering management information from the providers and clubs they fund about the children and families they are supporting. Following each holiday period (Easter, summer and Christmas) we will ask local authorities to report on their activity over the holiday period.

The requirements for local authorities are set out in the grant determination letter which we will use to monitor performance at a high level.

Local authorities can set other performances indicators to measure their own performance or that of partners.

Payment schedule

March 2021

Payments made upon satisfactory receipt of a delivery plan from the local authority by 19 February 2021. The plan sets out the intended scale and reach of their programme for Easter 2021.

June 2021

Payments of up to 50% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 14 May 2021 of:

a report detailing the delivery of the programme at Easter 2021

a delivery plan for summer 2021

November 2021

Payments of up to 30% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 15 October 2021 of:

a report detailing the delivery of the programme in summer 2021

a delivery plan for Christmas 2021

February 2022

Payments of up to 20% of the 2021 to 2022 allocation will be made upon satisfactory receipt by 29 January 2022 of:

Data collection

The reports will include data on children attending clubs in each local authority area.

All of the data and information collected by the holiday clubs and providers should all be collected in strict adherence to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Evaluation

An evaluation will be undertaken this year to evaluate the impact the programme has had and will focus on delivery across the summer.

This will be undertaken by a national provider and will be subject to a tendering process.

We expect all local authorities to cooperate with the evaluation of the holiday activities and food programme.

Support for local authorities

Our programme implementation team will support local authorities in delivering the holiday activities and food programme, focusing initially on the Easter holidays.

Each local authority will have access to a named contact who they will be able to contact with queries and requests for support. As part of the package of support, group meetings, regular communications and the sharing of resources will be promoted and facilitated.

We are also procuring a national support contract which will be in place from April 2021 to provide support, advisory and performance monitoring services to assist local authorities with ensuring holiday provision for school-age children.

We encourage local authorities to work closely with neighbouring local authorities and to establish clear cross border working protocols. This will help to ensure that adequate provision and support is offered to children from surrounding local authorities.

Standards for holiday provision

We have developed a framework of standards to provide a benchmark of what we expect from those delivering the holiday activities and food programme.

One of the key elements of the role of a holiday activities and food programme coordinator will be to:

improve the quality of provision across the local area

ensure that providers are supported to meet the high-level standards

Programme coordinators will be able to award funding to providers that don't meet the standards at the start of the grant period as long as they put a specific plan in place to ensure that the standards are met before the start of the holidays.

We expect all providers who are funded through the holiday activities and food programme to meet our framework of standards.

Framework of standards

These are the standards we expect for 2021 providers.

Food

Providers must provide at least one meal a day (breakfast, lunch or tea) and all food provided at the holiday club (including snacks) must meet school food standards.

Our expectation is that the majority of food served by providers will be hot. However, we acknowledge that there will be occasions when this is not possible and a cold alternative may be used.

All food provided as part of the programme must:

comply with regulations on food preparation:

take into account allergies and dietary requirements (see the allergy guidance for schools

take into account any religious or cultural requirements for food

Enriching activities

Holiday clubs must provide fun and enriching activities that provide children with opportunities to:

This could include:

Local authorities should set out how they can support providers to deliver a rich and varied mix of fun and enriching activities that are age-appropriate. We welcome bids that have also considered how they might encourage the continued use of fine motor skills over the holiday periods.

Physical activities

Holiday clubs must provide activities that meet the physical activity guidelines on a daily basis.

Nutritional education

Providers must include an element of nutritional education each day aimed at improving the knowledge and awareness of healthy eating for children. These do not need to be formal learning activities and could for example include activities such as:

Food education for families and carers

Providers must include at least weekly training and advice sessions for parents, carers or other family members. These should provide advice on how to source, prepare and cook nutritious and low-cost food.

Signposting and referrals

Holiday clubs must be able to provide information, signposting or referrals to other services and support that would benefit the children who attend their provision and their families. This could include sessions provided by:

Citizen's Advice

school nurses, dentists or other healthcare practitioners

family support services or children's services

housing support officers

Jobcentre Plus

organisations providing financial education

Policies and procedures

There are a wide variety of organisations and individuals involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme including but not limited to:

As set out in the grant determination letter, all of these groups must be able to demonstrate and explain the safeguarding procedures and checks that they have in place for the holiday activities and food programme.

They must have relevant and appropriate policies and procedures for:

safeguarding, including the recruitment of staff and volunteers

health and safety

relevant insurance policies

accessibility and inclusiveness

Where appropriate, holiday clubs must also be compliant with the Ofsted requirements for working with children.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility. We want every holiday club to be a safe and happy place for children to be and for parents, carers and families to feel confident that their child is well looked after and that robust safeguarding arrangements are in place.

Local authorities are statutorily responsible for safeguarding in relation to children in need, under s.17 of the Children Act 1989, and looked after children under s.20 of the Children Act 1989.

As set out in working together to safeguard children, safeguarding is defined for the purposes of this guidance as:

protecting children from maltreatment

preventing impairment of children's mental and physical health or development

ensuring that children grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care

taking action if you identify children to be at risk of harm

Local authorities should ensure that their local safeguarding partners understand the holiday activities and food programme and those working on the delivery of the programme are familiar with the working together to safeguard children guidance.

There are a number of accredited organisations who can provide safeguarding and child protection training courses for those involved in working with children. We expect local authorities to be able to demonstrate that those involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in their area are competent and have received adequate training and support.

Holiday clubs in school settings

We know that schools are safe places and have robust safeguarding arrangements in place.

Where activities are provided by the governing body or proprietor of a school, under the direct supervision or management of their school staff the school's child protection policy will apply.

Where the activities are provided separately by another body, the governing body or proprietor should seek assurance that the body concerned has appropriate safeguarding and child protection policies and procedure in place.

We recommend that anyone involved in the delivery of a holiday club in school settings is familiar with part 1 of keeping children safe in education.

Holiday clubs in out of school settings

By out-of-school settings we mean organisations or individuals that provide tuition, training, instruction or activities to children in England without their parents' or carers' supervision, but are not:

schools

colleges

education settings providing alternative provision

16 to 19 academies

providers caring for children that are registered with Ofsted or a childminder agency

These settings generally provide tuition, training, instruction or activities outside normal school hours (for example, evenings, weekends, school holidays), although some settings are run part-time during school hours to help meet the needs of those in home education.

The guidance for providers running out-of-school settings on keeping children safe during community activities, after-school clubs and tuition covers advice on what policies and procedures providers should have in place for health and safety, safeguarding and child protection, staff suitability, and governance.

Volunteers

We know that in some settings, volunteers can play an important role in the delivery of holiday clubs.

Under no circumstances should a volunteer in respect of whom no checks have been obtained be left unsupervised or allowed to work in regulated activity.

For some of the voluntary staff involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in holiday clubs, this work will be done regularly and considered to be regulated activity. This means they will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check with barred list information.

There may be a very small number of volunteers who do not regularly carry out this role, and so it may not be considered as regulated activity. This means they may not be required to have an enhanced DBS check.

The guidance on regulated activity in relation to children contains definitions of what we mean by regular and regulated activity.

Example

A guest speaker or presenter visits a holiday activities and food programme club to deliver a talk on nature.

The guest is escorted by staff at the club (who are DBS checked) while on the premises and is not left unsupervised with children at any time. In these circumstances, we would not expect a DBS check to be carried out.

To provide reassurance to parents, families and carers, we strongly recommend that all volunteers who are involved in the delivery of the holiday activities and food programme in holiday clubs should have an enhanced DBS check (which, where applicable, should include children's barred list information).

We do not recommend holiday clubs using volunteers that are not DBS checked, but if this occurs, it is the responsibility of the local authority to ensure that volunteers are not left alone and unsupervised with children in holiday clubs.

Other workers

All staff who are employed by holiday club providers funded through the holiday activities and food programme should be subject to an enhanced DBS check with barred list information.

Part 3 of keeping children safe in education sets out a clear process for safe recruitment. We recommend local authorities and holiday cubs providers follow this best practice when recruiting volunteers.

Ofsted registration

Holiday clubs may need to register with Ofsted but it is not a requirement for clubs and providers participating in the holiday activities and food programme. Guidance on the exemptions to Ofsted registration is available.

Families may be eligible for tax free childcare or the childcare costs element of Universal Credit. Through this families may be able to claim back up to 85% of their childcare costs if they are attending and paying for extra childcare at Ofsted registered settings.

The delivery of the programme at Easter could potentially be impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19). Face-to-face delivery of holiday clubs may not be possible in the local authority's area and remote delivery of the programme may, in some circumstances, be more viable.

If the local authority cannot hold face-to-face holiday clubs as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19), the local authority may operate flexibly to ensure that eligible children still receive the type of support detailed in the aims of the programme.

For example, this may involve children receiving food parcels that provide healthy meals and activity packs along with access to online support if they are unable to congregate in holiday clubs due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Our programme implementation team will work with local authorities to keep them up to date on the impact of changes as the programme progresses.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Holiday activities and food programme 2021

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This document provides information for local authorities delivering the holiday activities and food programme in 2021. On 8 November 2020, the government announced that the holiday activities and food programme will be expanded across the whole of England in 2021. The programme has provided healthy food and enriching activities to disadvantaged children since 2018.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Find out what offers are available from businesses to help with the cost of living.

Asda

Children aged 16 and under can get a hot or cold meal for £1 at any time of day in Asda cafés across the UK, 7 days a week, with no minimum adult spend. Asda are extending this offer to the end of 2022.

Iceland

Iceland are offering a number of cost saving initiative's, including weekly discounts, product deals and frozen prices which are available in store, including £1 price freezes across 100s of lines for 2022, a weekly discount offering over 60s 10% off on Tuesdays & most recently The Iceland Food club, a partnership launch with Fair For You, to help families manage rising costs. There is also more to come in Autumn and into Christmas! Find out more here: www.iceland.co.uk/doing-it-right

Morrisons

Morrisons are offering a free meal for 1 child under 16 when buying an adult meal with a value of £4.99 or over at in-store cafés.

M&S

M&S have frozen schoolwear prices across the UK, keeping 2022 prices at the same level as 2021. Their range of schoolwear clothing includes a 3 pack of Pure Cotton School Polo Shirts from £7 and a 2 pack of Pure Cotton School Jumpers from £11.

Scholastic

Scholastic are offering parents and carers an extra 20% off our pricing on a huge range of children's books when you buy through our School Book Clubs during September. For every order over £10, Scholastic will also donate an additional 20% of the total order value to your local school in free Rewards for them to spend on books for their libraries and classrooms.
www.scholastic.co.uk/helpforhouseholds
Amazon

Amazon is offering 7 different ways that people can save money, including accessing free entertainment such as Freevee and Amazon Music, free educational resources for school-aged children and affordable refurbished products.

Cineworld

Families can access a range of offers including discounted screenings, tickets and snacks. There are also midweek deals available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Society of London Theatre / UK Theatre Association

As part of Kids Week, a child aged 17 or under can get a free ticket to some performances in London theatres during August when accompanied by an adult paying full price. An additional 2 children can attend for half price.

ODEON

Treat the family to unforgettable big screen escapes. The Family Summer Saver pass is the perfect way to treat you and the kids to lasting memories at great value through the summer. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer* from ODEON with tickets from £5. *Terms and conditions apply. Purchase requires a myODEON membership, which is fast and free to sign up here. Redemptions are valid between 1 August until 30 September 2022 (inclusive).

ZSL London & Whipsnade Zoo

ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos run a Community Access Scheme to ensure that a visit to one of our zoos is accessible to all. For the Help for Households campaign, every day for the rest of the summer school holidays (until Sunday 4 September), ZSL is providing a limited number of additional tickets from as little as £3 per person.

www.zsl.org/CAS

National Express

Save 1/3 on coach travel!

You can get up to a third off UK-wide coach travel with a National Express coachcard.
Save a third on coach travel with a National Express coachcar

Go North East
Kids go free until 4th September

Until Sunday 4 September, up to three children aged 11 or under can travel for free on any Go North East service, all day, every day when accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. This includes any tickets that have already been bought, such as weekly and monthly tickets. Applies to Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland and surrounding areas.

Metrobus
Reduced fares for bus users in East Sussex

A new adult £5.00 East Sussex Day ticket when using our mobile app. · Up to four children travel for free with an adult at all times (this includes Concessionary card users).

Brighton & Hove Buses
East Sussex day ticket for £5

A new adult £5.00 East Sussex Day ticket when using our mobile app. Up to four children travel for free with an adult at all times (this includes Concessionary card users)

Hedingham & Chambers Buses
www.hedingham&chambers.co.uk/anywhere

Families or groups of 5 travel across Essex in Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester, Sudbury and Braintree.

Oxford Bus Company & Thames Travel

This summer, rediscover Oxfordshire by bus with the go anywhere day ticket.

Travel on all Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel services for just £9 for an adult all day or £17 for a family.

The Creations Club

Visit www.thecreationsclub.com
for details of a 25% or 50% discount on services offered for management consultancy. A further 20% off all services for businesses participating in the Help for Households
campaign. Interest free credit available for small to medium sized businesses accessing services through this campaign.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Groceries Asda Children aged 16 and under can get a hot or cold meal for £1 at any time of day in Asda cafés across the UK, 7 days a week, with no minimum adult spend. Asda are extending this offer to the end of 2022.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Get Set to Eat Fresh with Aldi | Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Design a Comic Strip that shows your vision of a future Olympic or Paralympic Games!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A local services and information guide for families with children and young people aged 0 to 19 years.

Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) Summer 2022

See what's on this Summer near you and find out more.

These activities are for children who are eligible for benefit related free school meals.

Childcare

Childcare, help paying for childcare and early education

Children's Centres

Providing support, services and activities families with children aged 0 - 5 years

Family Support Services including Early Help

Local and national family support covering parenting, wellbeing, domestic abuse and financial support services.

Education, Learning and Work

Educational support services and information

Activities for children aged 0 to 19

Things to do for toddlers to teens and one off events

Local Offer

Information for families with children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities

Young Hounslow

Information and services for young people

Early Years Professionals

Information and access to training courses, settings documents, childcare costs translations and provider portal guidance

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Southall Black Sisters has received funding from London Council's as part of ASCENT: A partnership within the London Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Consortium to develop a domestic violence outreach service for black and minority ethnic (BME) women and girls within the London Borough of Hounslow.

This free service is for BME women residing in Hounslow who have experienced domestic and sexual violence or more specific cultural forms of violence such as forced marriage, honour-related violence, dowry-related violence and inter-related issues such as homelessness, racism, immigration/asylum, no recourse to public funds, matrimonial and child custody/ contact issues, depression, suicide and self-harm.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hounslow Domestic Violence Outreach | Southall Black Sisters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Southall Black Sisters has received funding from London Council's as part of ASCENT: A partnership within the London Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Consortium to develop a domestic violence outreach service for black and minority ethnic (BME) women and girls within the London Borough of Hounslow .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Being a parent has never been easy. It can be lonely, frustrating, heart breaking and over-whelming. All parents struggle at one time or another. You are not alone. Home-Start’s expert staff and trained volunteers work alongside families just like yours to give non-judgmental, compassionate and confidential support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
My Independence - advice, information and support

If you are worried about homelessness, struggling to manage at home because of age, illness or disability, or have another issue that affects your ability to live independently such as debt or unemployment, you can contact My Independence.

Our Advisors can put you in touch with advice and information on services offered by Hounslow Council, the NHS, and community based organisations. They will develop a personalised plan and provide wide-ranging support to help you regain your independence.

My Independence is the first point of contact within Homelessness, Independence and Preventative Services (HIPS).

How can we help?

The Team can help with a wide variety of issues including:

housing advice and support to prevent homelessness

mediation with landlords to prevent eviction

guidance on accessing the private rented sector

advice on housing suitability including sheltered and supported accommodation options

support for vulnerable clients

advice on benefits, budgeting and money difficulties including falling behind with rent and bills

information on vocational training and work opportunities

information on what health and community based services might be available to help people live life to the fullest

support with blue badge and freedom pass applications

access to floating (practical) support

support for carers

Who can use the My Independence service?

You can use My Independence if you:

are aged 16 years and over

live in the London Borough of Hounslow or

look after someone who lives in Hounslow as their carer

Contact My Independence

You should not wait until you are in crisis before picking up the phone; contact us as early as possible for advice and support.

The My Independence Service is available Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Telephone: 020 8583 3942
Email: myindependence@hounslow.gov.uk

If you need to need assistance from Adult Social Services urgently or need to contact the Safeguarding Team to report an incidence of abuse or neglect, you should call the First Contact Team on 020 8583 3100 (out of hours 020 8583 2222).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
My Independence - advice, information and support | Ways to support your independence | London Borough of Hounslow

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Supporting Independence Service (SIS) is the gateway for vulnerable Hounslow residents and carers aged over 16 years into preventative services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
There are many sources of money and advice and debt counselling.

Government guidance - coronavirus impact

For government generic information on coronavirus, please visit the GOV.UK website.

For information on The Ministry of Housing and Communities (MHCLG) plans for emergency legislation to suspend evictions from social or private rented accommodation, please visit the MHCLG website.

To find out how to claim statutory sick pay (SSP), please visit the GOV.UK website.

For employment and support allowance (ESA), please visit the GOV.UK website.

If you need advice on financial planning, including expenses and what expenses have been "frozen", please visit the Money Advice Service website.

Independent and free money and debt advice

National Debtline

Telephone 0808 808 4000 Mon-Fri 9am to 8pm Sat 9.30 to 1pm More details

StepChange Debt Charity

Telephone 0800 138 1111 (Freephone including all mobiles) More details

This national charity gives free advice on:

managing debt

individual voluntary arrangements (IVAs)

debt relief orders.

It runs a free online debt-counselling service Debt Remedy available 24 hours a day. You don't need to give your name. The service can help you to reach a realistic budget, so you can clear your arrears over a realistic period of time.

The Money Advice Service

Free and impartial money advice, set up by government.

Telephone 0800 138 7777 (Calls are free)
Visit the Money Helper website

Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm

Saturday, 9am to 1pm

Sunday and Bank Holidays, closed

Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)

CAB gives confidential advice on benefits, benefit assessment and debt.

Telephone 0808 278 7830 to find out more about CAB offices (below) and outreach locations across the borough:

Feltham - The Centre (by the library)

Brentford and Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, Chiswick

You can also go to the CAB website.

Directgov

This government website provides an online benefits advisor tool which you can use to find out what benefits you may be entitled to. More details

Credit Union

Thamesbank Credit Union is a financial co-operative that, unlike banks, is owned and operated by its members for the benefit of its members. The Credit Union serves anyone who lives in Hounslow and can provide members with affordable credit, without the need for personal guarantees.

More details or call 020 8756 3865.

Email: admin@thamesbank.org

Hounslow Housing money and debt advice services

If you are a council tenant or leaseholder with arrears, we can arrange a free, confidential session with a money/debt adviser. Contact your Housing Officer to arrange an appointment on 020 8583 4000 or visit your local Housing office.

Help with paying your rent

If you are having difficulty paying your rent and are not already on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, you may qualify. Contact your local job centre to find out more about Universal Credit.

Report a Loan Shark

Loan sharks are illegal moneylenders who often charge very high interest rates. Loan Sharks sometimes enforce repayment using blackmail or threats of violence. You can report loan sharks anonymously:

Illegal Money Lending Team
Telephone: 0300 555 2222
24-hour service
Text a report to 07860 022 11

Email: reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk

You can check if a company is authorised to lend money:

FCA
Telephone: 0800 111 6768
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Saturday, 9am to 1pm

Email: consumer.queries@fca.org.uk

Foodbox Foodbank

Hounslow Housing works closely with Foodbox food bank. If you need to make use of the Foodbank you will need to request a voucher from your Housing Officer, local Citizens Advice Bureau, or Jobcentre Plus. Residents can use Foodbox no more than three times in a 12-month period although there is flexibility in extenuating circumstances.
Visit Hounslow FoodBox

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Many sources of money and advice and debt counselling.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Hounslow Wellbeing Network is a social network that connects people, organisations and services to help reduce stigma and mental illness.

We welcome those who are experiencing difficult times and those on a journey of personal recovery. Our aim is to combat social isolation, loneliness, depression and anxiety and improve the health and wellbeing of local residents.

We're a social network, co-produced and co-designed by Hounslow residents, and is made up of local people, friends, families, carers and professionals living and working in the borough.

Some people may have experienced difficulties with physical or mental health. Others may feel that this supportive and social environment contributes to their life and helps them to develop their social network.

The Wellbeing Network offers information and resources on local events and support networks, as well as providing places and ways for people to connect and get involved in their local community to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

We offer a range of activities and meetings across Hounslow, including:

Social network meetings called Let's Connect that provide a supportive and friendly environment to develop connections with other people and to get information about your community. It's also a place to share your strengths, talents and interests and contribute in any way you can. You also contribute by simply being there and being part of the network.

Individual meetings with a wellbeing partner, usually for up to five sessions. This is to consider and reflect on what's important to you and to explore the support you may want in order to develop any preferences or meet any challenges. We can do this either through conversation or by developing a wellbeing map. It's your choice how we approach this.

A busy monthly activity schedule based on members' input. Members take a lead in arranging events which include going out for meals, coffee, walks, photography, concerts, galleries and much more.

A range of groups for your wellbeing and support, including: calm and relax, mindfulness, hearing voices and unusual beliefs.

Support and putting you in touch with organisations, people or activities in the community.

Anyone who feels that this would contribute to their wellbeing is welcome.

Please see our monthly newsletter for regular updates and this month's activities.

Wellbeing Network members' stories

Doreen's story

"I came to the Wellbeing Network at a time when I was recovering from a stroke, and had been living with a diagnosis of schizophrenia for many years. This was my first experience of working with a group, where service users, carers, mental health professionals, GPs, and members from the voluntary sector all had equal value at all stages of designing the project.

It was very interesting and sometimes challenging, but overall a very inspiring and exciting process. I learnt a lot: I honed my management and decision-making skills, I was encouraged to use my writing skills, and (don't laugh) I even learnt knitting! We co-produced a knitting project - a wall-hanging with the initials WSIC (Whole Systems Integrated Care) and WBN (Wellbeing Network) in an explosion of colours, which had significant meanings to each one of us.

I hope others can expect the best kind of involvement, led and directed by themselves and supported by others in the network, whether Wellbeing Partners, professionals or other members. I believe there is life after mental illness, a good quality and fulfilling life. I'm excited to meet new members of the Wellbeing Network, and look forward to see how the network develops and grows.

I believe good things are coming. Why not connect with us and be part of our story?"

Kevin's story

"When I was invited to be part of the working group for the wellbeing network, I didn't have a clue what they were talking about! But I decided to come along anyway, because I think it's always worth trying something different.

At the first meeting, when we first heard about the mapping tool, it made a bit more sense. But what I didn't realise at the time is that I think I joined the working group in order to become part of the network itself.
As a member of the group I had a voice and I felt like I was being listened to, and the co-productive element allowed me to learn new skills, like managing and chairing meetings and writing notes, working on job descriptions and interviews, and all sorts of stuff. These skills are transferrable to my job as a peer support worker, dealing with people at all levels involved with treatment and recovery in the community.

Being part of the Wellbeing Network has enhanced my life, and I believe it can help us to move towards prevention, rather than cure, when it comes to mental health, and wouldn't that be brilliant."

Phil's story

"As a long-time user of mental health services, I have learnt that there's a lot you do to help yourself. Like a lot of people dealing with mental health, I experienced social isolation and thought I had to do everything myself.

I started by joining a book club, which helped me meet a new group of people. When I was told about the working group, I knew this was the kind of thing that would help people with long-term mental health conditions. The Wellbeing Network helped me to reconnect with the community and get involved with local activities.

It's important not only to get out there and connect with others, but you also need to give something back. You need to use your own skills to help your community to grow, and this is what made the Wellbeing Network exciting for me.

I've been with the group for 15 months now and it's been a great journey. But now it's getting really exciting."

Here are some great resources to help you feel more connected, support available through the Wellbeing Network.

Single Point of Access (SPA) - West London NHS Trust
If you or someone you know needs help in a mental health crisis, call the Trust's 24/7 mental health helpline on:
Freephone 0800 328 4444 or visit the SPA (Single Point of Access) page.
Care Place
A local services and information directory
Visit the Care Place website
The Hounslow Community Information Guide
A great source of local community information
See the Hounslow Community Information Guide website
MIND
The mental health charity in Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow
Visit the local MIND website
National Survivor User Network
An independent mental health charity focused on lived experienced, dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive user-led network to challenge inequality and improve lives.
Find out more on the National Survivor User Network website
Rethink mental illness
Rethink is a national mental health charity seeking to improve the lives of people affected by mental illness through a network of local groups and services. Find local advice and information on the Rethink website
Southall Black Sisters
Providing support for Black, Asian and African-Caribbean women in West London, including specialist advice, support services and counselling. Find out more on the Southall Black Sisters website
UK Men's Sheds Association
Men's Sheds provides community spaces for men to connect, talk and create together to combat loneliness and isolation. Visit their website to find a shed near you
We Coproduce
We Coproduce works with local communities using the arts, graphic design, theatre, interactive technology and social media to create better and braver solutions to health and social care challenges. Find out how you can get involved with Wecoproduce
Women and Girls Network
The Women and Girls Network is a free service, run by women, for women, who have been affected by all forms of abuse or violence. For advice and support visit the Women and Girls Network website

Becoming a member

Unfortunately we aren't accepting new members at the current time but we will be registering new members very soon, watch this space for more information.

The Wellbeing Network activities as listed on this website continue and members of the public are very welcome to join any of these straight away.

See what we have got coming up here.

Return to header

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hounslow Wellbeing Network :: West London NHS Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Hounslow Wellbeing Network supports people to connect, helping to reduce stigma and mental illness. We're also open to those who may be experiencing difficult times and those on a journey of personal recovery. Our aim is to combat social isolation, loneliness, depression and anxiety, improving the health and wellbeing of local residents.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Face-to-face drop-in sessions are currently restarted. Please keep watching this space for any updates we make.

Who we are

The Council's Adult Locality Mental Health Team (ALMHT) aims to prevent deterioration in the mental health of Hounslow residents, increase the wellbeing of communities and support the recovery of residents with long-term mental illness.

The team is made up of mental health social care professionals who undertake individual casework and community development aiming to reduce isolation, promote independence and mental wellbeing.

What we do

Under the umbrella of recovery and prevention, Adult Locality Menta Health Team workers base themselves in local community spaces - this is to engage individuals who would not usually seek support for their mental health needs and/or who would wait for a crisis in their emotional wellbeing before seeking help.

This model is based on the belief that the residents of Hounslow deserve access to the support they require at a time that is right for them, in a place that is convenient for them. Having a visible presence in local community spaces also serves to promote emotional wellbeing for both individuals and communities, as well as to reduce stigma, discrimination, and isolation.

The ALMHT works alongside health colleagues in Primary and Secondary Care as well as other stakeholders to link individuals with community support that maintains mental wellness, prevents or delays the development of social care needs that require a formal social support intervention. The ALMHT also is closely aligned to the Hounslow MINT (Mental Health Integrated Network Teams) provided by West London Mental Health NHS Trust.

Where we are and how to get help

Whilst our main base is at London Borough of Hounslow, Hounslow House, we have 'Healthy Minds' drop-ins currently up and running where residents are welcome to see a mental health professional:

London Museum of Water & Steam Green Dragon Ln, Brentford, TW8 0EN on the second Thursday of every month from 10am to 12 noon.

St Paul's Church, Bath Road, Hounslow West, TW3 3DA on the third Wednesday of every month from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Riverside Vineyard Church, Air Park Way, Feltham TW13 7LX on the fourth Thursday of every month 10am to 12 noon.

Adult residents are welcome to attend any of our 'Healthy Minds' drop-ins when they are worried about their own, or someone else's, mental health. No appointment is necessary, however, should you wish to let us know about your visit to one of the drop-ins in advance, please fill out the online form below.
Complete form
Contact us
For self-referral as well as for the referral by a professional
Should you require more information, please email adultsocialcare@hounslow.gov.uk or dial on 020 8583 3100 (Mon to Fri, between 9am & 5pm).

Locations

Hounslow Council, Hounslow House, 7 Bath Road, Hounslow, TW3 3EB (directions displayed on map)

London Museum of Water & Steam Green Dragon Ln, Brentford, TW8 0EN

St Paul's Church, Bath Road, Hounslow West, TW3 3DA

Riverside Vineyard Church, Air Park Way, Feltham TW13 7LX

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Adult Locality Mental Health Team (ALMHT) | Adult Locality Mental Health Team (ALMHT) | London Borough of Hounslow

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Family Support Services

Extra support at an early stage to stop small problems from getting worse. Find out more...

Parenting support and courses

Help to manage your finances

Early Years - support for 0-5 years

Health and emotional well being

Domestic Abuse support and services

Bullying - information and support

Youth - support for young people aged 11 to 19

Help for Ukrainian people arriving in Hounslow (Opens in New Window)

Educational support for children and young people

Support services for sexual abuse

Staying safe online (Opens in New Window)

Hate crime (Opens in New Window)

Free childcare for 2 year olds

Check now to see if you qualify

Report child abuse (Opens in New Window)

About this site

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Microsoft is retiring Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) and support will end on 15th June 2022. If you are using IE11, it is recommended that you use an alternative browser going forward, as you will be unable to access this web portal and other services on IE11 in the future.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Housing benefit

All about housing benefits, local housing allowance, uploading your evidence and housing payments

Benefit changes

The Government’s new welfare benefit scheme is being introduced in the London Borough of Hounslow as an online only digital service

Discretionary housing payments

Information about discretionary housing payments and how we can help you

Benefit Cap support and advice

Supporting residents who are affected by the changes

Discretionary local crisis payments

Information about the help you may be able to receive in a crisis

Benefit fraud

Information about benefit fraud, including how to report it and how we counter it

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In this document

1. Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)

2. Safety planning

3. In an emergency

4. Support with housing

5. Worried about finances?

6. Support for children

7. Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Services

8. Covering your tracks online

9. Counselling Support Services

You might be worried about your physical and emotional safety, particularly if you're experiencing abuse from a partner, ex-partner, or family member. Domestic abuse and sexual violence services will provide support and advice to you. This webpage includes updated information about support services and how to contact them, safety planning and covering your tracks online. If you need to exit this page quickly, click on the 'Exit Site' button.
Domestic violence

Domestic abuse can affect anyone and can harm your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Domestic abuse can be:

Threatening behaviour

Stalking

Physical abuse

Sexual abuse

Economic abuse

Psychological abuse

Emotional harm

Coercive and controlling behaviour

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Safety planning In an emergency Support with housing Worried about finances? Support for children Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Services Covering your tracks online Counselling Support Services You might be worried about your physical and emotional safety, particularly if you're experiencing abuse from a partner, ex-partner, or family member.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Local Cultural Education Partnerships (LCEPs) are place-based groups of influential experts, united by their desire to improve cultural education for local children and young people.

LCEP members come from the education sector, arts and cultural organisations, the youth sector, local authorities, Music Education Hubs, health and housing sectors, business and creative industries. The strength of the partnerships is in the diversity of their perspective and influence. They pool their local knowledge and professional experience to identify shared strategic priorities for their area, and then drive them forward. Ultimately, they result in more efficient, effective and focused working, leading to improved opportunity for local children and young people to experience arts and culture.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Local Cultural Education Partnerships (LCEPs) are place-based groups of influential experts, united by their desire to improve cultural education for local children and young people. LCEP members come from the education sector, arts and cultural organisations, the youth sector, local authorities, Music Education Hubs, health and housing sectors, business and creative industries.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our Partners

The project is led by the RSWT in partnership with Groundwork, Field Studies Council, Sensory Trust, YoungMinds and Wildlife Trusts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here are some simple tips to help your school start its own incredible outdoor learning journey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Explore nature and get closer to wildlife and the outside world.

We have loads of great ideas and resources to help kids and families connect with nature, from simple activities they can do at home or at school, to wild clubs, fun articles and family-friendly reserves and events.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Nature Activities for Kids | Fun & Learning - The RSPB

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We have loads of great ideas and resources to help kids and families connect with nature, from simple activities they can do at home or at school, to wild clubs, fun articles and family-friendly reserves and events.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find resources, lesson plans & case studies relating to the themes of food, farming and the natural environment. A range of quality assured educational content.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Outdoor learning ideas | Learning through Landscapes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hundreds of free lesson ideas and activities for every age and subject area - ideal for curriculum-led outdoor learning and Forest School.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Child Development Research Project Toolkit V2

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Download Get Outside - taking your learning beyond the classroom to support your recovery curriculum.

This free guide covers:

How to use learning outside the classroom to deliver learning in your school grounds and locality

COVID safe practices of moving around and using your school grounds

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Download Get Outside - taking your learning beyond the classroom to support your recovery curriculum. This free guide covers: How to use learning outside the classroom to deliver learning in your school grounds and locality COVID safe practices of moving around and using your school grounds

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Active Partnerships | Active Partnerships

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For all your requests related to sport and physical activity, we have a contact who can help you throughout the whole of England. Use the map below to locate your Active Partnership contact or use the dropdown menu below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The government's Holiday Activities with Food programme (HAF) has grown over the last couple of years as a response to a growing body of research on the triple inequalities of holiday hunger, isolation, and inactivity.

Top tips for those delivering activity

Once you have planned to include physical activity in your HAF programme you will be thinking about how to train and support the workforce you want to deliver the activity.

Partners and the support available

There is a world of resource and support to help you get the physical activity part of your holiday provision right.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The government's Holiday Activities with Food programme (HAF) has grown over the last couple of years as a response to a growing body of research on the triple inequalities of holiday hunger, isolation, and inactivity. Once you have planned to include physical activity in your HAF programme you will be thinking about how to train and support the workforce you want to deliver the activity.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Developed by the Youth Sport Trust, and endorsed by the National Autistic Society, All About Autism is a digital and practical toolkit that builds upon knowledge of autism spectrum conditions (ASC) and some of the key considerations for making PE and sport inclusive to all.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Help young people to boost their health and wellbeing by promoting physical activity before, during, and after the school day by using our list of activities below, provided by physical activity and sports organisations.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Help young people to boost their health and wellbeing by promoting physical activity before, during, and after the school day by using our list of activities below, provided by physical activity and sports organisations.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The partnership means that the Kitchen Garden Project digital resources will be available to all schools who sign up to the Food for Life Membership or Awards Packages.

The resources include delicious Jamie Oliver recipes for children, lesson plans, helpful teaching notes, growing units, curriculum-linked activities and nutrition information, all tailored to primary school-level cooking lessons and activities for garden-based learning.

A single subscription to both food education programmes means that you will have even more flexibility and support around practical cooking, growing and food-based learning. Schools who have already been working with Food for Life and the Kitchen Garden Project have told us how well our resources complement each other. We hope you think so too!

We've worked with the Kitchen Garden Project team to streamline the resources to make them more structured and accessible. Every September, we will exchange the resources for brand new ones, giving you another great reason to renew your subscription!

Working together in this way enables us to empower even more schools to provide access to essential food education and support children in their care to grow healthily.

What next?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
jamie oliver kitchen garden project children health food education schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Jamie Oliver's Kitchen Garden Project - Food for Life

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The partnership means that the Kitchen Garden Project digital resources will be available to all schools who sign up to the Food for Life Membership or Awards Packages. The resources include delicious Jamie Oliver recipes for children, lesson plans, helpful teaching notes, growing units, curriculum-linked activities and nutrition information, all tailored to primary school-level cooking lessons and activities for garden-based learning.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Helping your little ones to know and love their vegetables!

SEE & EAT books each show a different vegetable's journey from farm-to-fork. You can read the ebooks on a smartphone or tablet and, if you wish, personalise them with your child.

Or you can buy printed copies of the books to look at with your child.

Looking at a SEE & EAT book or ebook for a few minutes a day for a couple of weeks can make all the difference when the vegetable appears on your child's plate! Or check out the activities page for more fun ways to help your child to know and love their greens!
How do See & Eat books work?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the recipes area. The Food – a fact of life (FFL) website has a range of recipes which support the teaching and learning of handling a range of ingredients, food skills and cooking techniques.