Luton, 30th October 2024
Active Luton held a special celebration event to highlight the remarkable achievements of the Energise Luton Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Camps and to extend gratitude to everyone involved in this impactful programme. The event was graced by Deputy Lieutenant Martin Darlow, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bhavesh Shah and Deputy Mayor Councillor Babatunde Ajisola.
The Importance of HAF Programmes
Holiday Activity and Food programmes play a critical role in supporting the wellbeing of children and families, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. These programmes offer essential access to nutritious meals during school holidays, addressing food insecurity when free school meals are not available. Additionally, they provide structured activities that promote physical health, social interaction, and mental stimulation, ensuring children remain engaged and active during the holidays.
The Journey and Impact of Energise Luton
Since its inception in 2018 and subsequent revitalisation post-pandemic, the Energise Luton programme has grown tremendously. Marcus Rashford's advocacy brought significant media attention to the need for free school meals during holidays, emphasising the importance of keeping children active. Funded by a £1.2 million annual grant over three years from the Department for Education (DfE), the programme has reached families and children on income-related free school meals in Luton's most deprived areas.
Independent economic consultants Volterra recently estimated the gross benefit of the Energise Luton programme at £6.1 million, highlighting its substantial social value.
Achievements and Expansion
In its first year, Active Luton piloted camps to refine a sustainable model that included physical activity, nutritious food, and enrichment activities. This successful model expanded to over 50 providers, offering diverse activities such as performing arts, dance, football, arts and crafts, storytelling, film-making, and roller skating. By its third year, Energise Luton Camps were recognised as a model of good practice by agencies supporting the DfE.
With over 352 holiday camps and 17,778 places taken by children on free school meals, including 15% for SEND children, the programme has achieved high engagement levels and is among the top five for the highest reach of unique children in the South East and East cluster of 32 local authorities.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Aspirations
Key partnerships with organisations such as Luton Food Bank and the Public Health Team have provided additional support and unique interventions, enhancing the programme's reach and impact. Initiatives like Active Luton’s 'Virtually Active, Truly Engaged' project have demonstrated the transformative power of sports and life skills for disengaged children, offering them hope and opportunities for the future.
Looking Ahead
As the initial three-year funding period nears its end in March 2025, Active Luton remains hopeful that the government will recognise the incredible impact of the HAF programme and
continue to support it. The community eagerly awaits the outcome of the Autumn review by the DfE on future funding.
Acknowledgements
Active Luton and Luton Borough Council extend heartfelt thanks to all partners, providers, and supporters who have contributed to the success of the Energise Luton programme. Your dedication and hard work have made a significant difference in the lives of countless children and families in our community.
Image attached from left to right: The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bhavesh Shah, Deputy Lieutenant Martin Darlow, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bhavesh Shah, Penny Kelly Communities Engagement Manager at Active Luon, Lawrence Kay CEO of Active Luton, Interim Chair of Trustees for Active Luton Kevin Poulton and Deputy Mayor Councillor Babatunde Ajisola