Rotherham’s Healthy Holiday programme returns to the borough this winter.
Providing funded holiday camps and healthy meals for children and young people who are eligible for benefit-related free school meals.
Delivered by Rotherham Council, together with a range of partners, Healthy Holidays runs throughout the winter school break to help ease pressures on families by offering fun, engaging activities and access to healthy food at a time when costs often rise.
Starting from 22 December 2025 and running through to 2 January 2026, participants can take part in a broad range of activities including multi-sports, football, boxing, dancing, swimming, baking, arts and crafts, animal handling and plenty of festive fun.
Funded places are available for children who meet the criteria, including over 13,000 children from the borough who receive benefits-related free school meals. Every funded session includes a meal. In addition, many providers also offer good value paid places.
Whilst all of the activities are inclusive, parents of young people with special education needs and disabilities will also find a range of activities in the programme specifically designed with SEND children in mind.
Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Cllr Victoria Cusworth said: “We know that winter is a challenging time for many families which is why Healthy Holidays is invaluable at this time of year. The programme means every family has the opportunity to enjoy activities throughout the school break, without having to worry about covering the cost.
“For parents, the clubs offer peace of mind that their children are having fun, meeting new friends and are getting a nutritious meal and I would encourage parents to book their child’s place as soon as possible before spaces get booked up.”
Asad from activity provider Genius Tuition added: “Over the challenging winter period, the Healthy Holiday programme is a vital lifeline. Through the Holiday Activities and Food funding, we’re able to ensure every child receives a nutritious, warm meal each day, alongside engaging activities that foster new skills, social connections, and resilient wellbeing.
“This provision directly tackles the 'holiday experience gap,' giving all children the confidence to return to school feeling refreshed, active, and ready to learn, while significantly easing the financial and emotional pressure on families during the festive season."
Parents must collect a HAF code from their child's school to access funded place.
To find out more or to book a place, please contact the activity providers directly.
See the Council’s website for more information and to view the activities in full at: www.rotherham.gov.uk/healthy-holidays
