Dudley Council has announced plans to use its own funds to cover a shortfall in the Holiday Food Activities Programme (HAF), which provides meals and activities for children from low-income families during school breaks.
Programme Expansion Backed by Councillors
During a cabinet meeting on June 11, councillors approved a two-year extension of the HAF programme. The scheme targets the 13,000 Dudley children eligible for free school meals, ensuring they have access to nutritious food and enriching activities outside of term time.
Labour councillor Cathryn Bayton highlighted the programme's value, stating, "You can see how invaluable providing the family activities really is as well as providing additional support with food." Reform UK's deputy leader in Dudley, Shaun Keasey, also voiced support, noting the current economic challenges and the importance of helping children.
Funding Gap and Council Response
The government funding for 2026/27 stands at £1.24 million, a 2.4% reduction from the previous year. Council leader Patrick Harley acknowledged the shortfall and proposed covering it from council resources. "If it is possible I'd like that shortfall to be made up from our resources," he said, adding that he expects cross-party support.
Cabinet member for children and young people, Wayne Little, endorsed the idea, calling the programme "well-known what a good programme this is." Councillors agreed to secure a delivery method for the next two years after the current external contract ends in 2027.
Local Provider Priority
Labour leader Shaukat Ali urged the council to prioritize local providers when awarding the HAF contract, ensuring community-based organizations have the first opportunity to deliver services.
