In addition to the parent and feedback surveys, our providers produce Case Studies to highlight the benefits attending their HAF programmes have on children and families in the borough.  The following is a case study of our HAF Provider, ‘Our Heritage,’ supported families during the Summer 2025 HAF Programme.

"In Bexley, Our Heritage UK delivered a programme of a number of activities under the HAF banner, with 12 core sessions for families and several big events that included a community picnic, a cinema trip to the O2 Arena, cooking competitions for 11 to 16-year-olds, and cultural dance sessions. The aim was not only to keep children entertained, but to reduce isolation of families and link them into wider community support and resources.

During registration, several parents expressed concerns about food insecurity and the struggle to afford family days out during the school break. Others had little confidence in accessing or understanding local services or engaging with community networks. We saw an opportunity to use HAF as a means to distribute food with fruit from Felex weekly, to support children, and we also signpost families to help and provide longer-term support, helping them feel part of the community.

We strengthened our partnerships with local organisations and groups. Tasty African Food Thamesmead came and provided hot food for trip days, which reduced stress for parents while ensuring hot, fresh food and choice was available safely. We also worked with the local library for headcount and safety briefings before trips, which established a safe place to gather for families as well as connecting them to the library. Volunteers from our team, including health and social care students from Leeds University, were also able to help direct parents to local support, ranging from job centres to wellbeing groups.

Parents repeatedly said the programme gave them “breathing space” and reduced stress. The seaside trip was a particular highlight, with 50 parents and children attending (many of whom said it was their first time at the beach as a family). We saw anti-social behaviour among a group of teens being channelled into constructive activities like sports, cooking competitions and music workshops. We also observed parents slowly building up supportive friendships with each other, reducing isolation.

We want to develop stronger referral pathways with local agencies such as schools, and family hubs so that families can access support across the year and not just in summer. We are also looking at match funding to grow trips and cultural sessions.”