What is the Healthy Holidays Programme?

The Healthy Holidays Programme is a Leeds City Council initiative run in partnership with community organisations to address child hunger during school holidays. The programme provides hot meals and various activities for children eligible for free school meals and their families.

Research shows that many families face additional financial pressure during school holidays as they need to cover meals normally provided by schools. The lack of structured activities during holidays can also negatively impact children's physical and mental wellbeing. The Healthy Holidays Programme aims to address these issues.

The Healthy Holidays Programme provides:

  • Nutritious meals: Balanced, healthy hot meals that meet children's nutritional needs.
  • Fun activities: A variety of sports, arts, cultural and educational activities to enrich children's holiday experience.
  • Safe spaces: A secure, friendly environment that promotes social interaction and personal development.
  • Family support: Resources and information for parents to access additional support.

Who is eligible?

The Healthy Holidays Programme primarily targets children eligible for free school meals, though specific criteria may vary by area and project. Typically, the following children can participate:

  • Children eligible for income-based free school meals
  • Children from families receiving Universal Credit or other benefits
  • Children identified as vulnerable or with special needs
  • Children referred by schools or social services

If you're unsure about your child's eligibility, contact your child's school or your local Healthy Holidays coordinator.

Healthy Holidays Activity Centres

Across Leeds, multiple venues operate as Healthy Holidays activity centres during school breaks. These centres are run by schools, community organisations, children's centres, youth clubs and other partners.

North Leeds

  • Meanwood Community Centre

    Address: Meanwood Road, LS7 2JD

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday-Friday 10:00-15:00

  • Alwoodley Primary School

    Address: Cranmer Rise, LS17 5HX

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday-Thursday 09:00-14:00

South Leeds

  • Middleton Community Centre

    Address: Middleton Park Avenue, LS10 4HX

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday-Friday 10:00-15:00

  • Hunslet Club

    Address: Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11:00-16:00

East Leeds

  • Seacroft Youth Centre

    Address: South Parkway, LS14 6QB

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Tuesday-Friday 10:30-15:30

  • Gipton Children's Centre

    Address: Oak Tree Drive, LS9 6RY

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday-Thursday 09:30-14:30

West Leeds

  • Bramley Community Centre

    Address: Waterloo Lane, LS13 2JB

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday-Friday 10:00-15:00

  • Pudsey Youth Club

    Address: Kent Road, LS28 9EE

    Phone: 0113 xxx xxxx

    Activity times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00-15:00

How to apply

There are several ways to apply for the Healthy Holidays Programme:

1

Contact your child's school

Many schools partner with the Healthy Holidays Programme and can help secure a place for your child.

2

Contact a local activity centre directly

You can contact any of the activity centres listed above to inquire about applications.

3

Apply online

Visit the Leeds City Council website to complete an online application form.

Apply Online
4

Contact the Healthy Holidays coordinator

Call the Healthy Holidays helpline: 0113 XXX XXXX (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00).

Apply early!

Places in the Healthy Holidays Programme are often limited, so we recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your child's place.

Volunteering and partnership opportunities

The success of the Healthy Holidays Programme depends on volunteers and community partners. If you or your organisation would like to get involved, here's how:

  • Become an activity volunteer to help organise and run activities
  • Provide a venue to host activities
  • Donate food, equipment or activity materials
  • Offer professional guidance (e.g., as a sports coach, art teacher, etc.)
  • Provide financial support or sponsorship

If you're interested in getting involved, contact the Healthy Holidays coordinator at healthyholidays@leeds.gov.uk.