As school holidays approach, many families face a significant food crisis due to a recent government decision. Approximately 500,000 children from poorer families, who qualify for free school meals during term time, are now ineligible for the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. This programme is crucial as it provides nutritious meals and activities during the school breaks.
The disconnect between free school meals and HAF eligibility means that working parents earning as little as £7,500 a year may struggle to access essential support. This change threatens to undo any progress made in alleviating food insecurity during the school year, leaving families vulnerable during the holidays.
The HAF programme has been a lifeline for many, offering not just food but also enriching activities that support children’s development. By severing the link to free school meals, the government risks pushing low-income families towards a cliff edge, exacerbating existing inequalities.
Advocates are urging the government to restore this critical connection before the next budget, highlighting the urgent need for continued support for these children. Without action, the benefits gained during term time could be lost, leaving families in dire circumstances during school breaks.
Source: The Guardian
