Hundreds of children to benefit from food and fun as holiday activity programme returns

Children and young people across Norfolk can enjoy weeks of exciting activities this summer as the Big Norfolk Holiday Fun (BNHF) programme returns. 

Bookings are now open for the summer holiday programme, which offers free activities and a healthy hot or cold meal for children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Many providers also offer paid places at a small cost for families who do not qualify for a free place. 

BNHF is run by Active Norfolk on behalf of Norfolk County Council and is part of the Government-funded Holiday Activity and Food programme, now in its fifth year. 

The scheme provides a healthy meal and activity to children and young people through the Christmas, Easter and summer holidays. 

In Norfolk, thousands of children have benefitted from free activities and food since the programme's launch in July 2021. There have been more than 184,000 attendances at activities and a quarter of those children have special educational needs and disabilities. 

Sara Tough OBE, Executive Director of Children's Services at Norfolk County Council, "We know that the school holidays can be a difficult time for families that usually receive a free school meal and this programme has been a lifeline for many, giving children food and positive activities.  

"The range of activities on offer has really grown over the last five years with water sports, gymnastics, science, hair and beauty workshops, skateboarding and so much more on offer. There really is something for everyone." 

The programme runs from 20 July to 2 September and bookings are now open. It is available for children and young people aged four (if already attending school) to 16. Children eligible for means-tested free school meals can access places for free, with non-eligible children also able to access some activities for a small charge. 

Parents say: 

"BNHF have given us a precious gift... my child has made new friends, improved confidence and self-esteem, learnt new skills... I'd never get a break without it."  

"As a single mum... these sessions meant I could still work in the holidays rather than taking unpaid leave... the service was so helpful."  

"It has been amazing for her - she loved going, meeting new people, and having structure through the holidays."  

Find activities near you: 
https://eequ.org/bignorfolkholidayfun 

Not eligible for a free place? 
Many activities offer paid places. Find out more at: 
www.activenorfolk.org/bnhf 

Stay up to date: 
Sign up to the Holiday Fun newsletter: 
https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/holidayfunsignup