Lincolnshire’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme was a double winner at this year’s HAF Awards.
Run by the Department for Education, the awards celebrate the country’s most outstanding HAF providers and volunteers – those who go that extra mile to support children and young people during the school holidays.
This year, Lincolnshire took home two regional awards, recognising the real difference the county’s HAF programme makes to young lives.
Magna Vitae received the Regional HAF Provider Award for their innovative Flexible Teen Gym and Swim Membership. Their commitment to engaging with secondary school-aged young people has been particularly impressive, including the introduction of a free "Bring a Friend" offer, helping to increase participation and make activities more accessible to young people who may not otherwise take part.
Huge congratulations also go to Paisley-Mae Clyde, who won the Regional Young Person Award in recognition of her long-term engagement with the HAF programme, which has helped develop her skills and confidence. Through her involvement, Paisley discovered a passion for golf and, with support from the HAF team, went on to secure a golf scholarship.
Cllr Natalie Oliver, Executive Councillor for Children’s Services, said: “Our HAF programme supports thousands of local young people each year, and we’re really proud to have been recognised by the DfE. Magna Vitae and Paisley-Mae are both great examples of what can be achieved, and their success is well deserved.
“Our providers all go above and beyond to ensure that the children they work with have a happy, healthy school holidays. Having visited a number of our HAF clubs, I’ve seen first-hand the life-changing difference they can make. Well done to everyone involved!”
For more information on Lincolnshire’s HAF programme, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/school-pupil-support/holiday-activities-food-programme