Introduction and highlights
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme was established in response to growing evidence that children from low-income households, experience inequalities in both opportunities and access to nutritious food during school holiday periods. The programme is targeted at school-aged children from Reception to Year 11 who are in receipt of income-related free school meals (FSM), equating to approximately 9,000 pupils in North Tyneside.
The programme, known in North Tyneside as easeINTO, primarily targets children eligible for income-related FSM, with up to 15% of funding used flexibly to support additional children identified by the local authority as being at risk of disadvantage or inequality.
This challenge is set against a wider regional context. Child poverty remains a significant concern, with the region experiencing the second highest child poverty rate in the UK (North East Child Poverty Commission 2024/25). This highlights the growing demand for support beyond those traditionally eligible for FSM.
The programme team has continued to strengthen and expand partnerships each year, enabling increased reach and engagement. As a result, more children and families have been able to benefit from the programme. Notably, the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) offer has significantly developed, now including a broader range of activities tailored to individual needs, as well as inclusive opportunities designed for whole family participation.
In August 2025, the Government confirmed continued funding for the HAF Programme for a further three years, providing stability and opportunity for continued growth and development.
This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the delivery of the North Tyneside HAF Programme for the period 2025–2026, highlighting key developments, outcomes, and areas of impact.
