Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Decision approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 4, 2025

Purpose:

Content: Decision   For the reasons set out in the report Cabinet RESOLVED to Agree:   i)  The acceptance of the grant for the anticipated amount of c £2M from DfE for the delivery of the HAF programme for the Easter, summer and Christmas holidays in 2025. ii)  To delegate authority to the Corporate Director for Children and Young People in consultation with the Lead Portfolio Holder to accept the grant funding from DfE for the school holidays in 2026-2028.   Alternatives Considered   a)  Option 1: Do not accept grant A lack of free holiday and food provision for vulnerable children places them at greater risk of food poverty, social isolation, and poor physical and mental health and is likely to have a negative impact on their education outcomes. It also means that the Council will not be able to deliver the Holiday Activities and Food Programme, which may lead to reputational damage and a missed opportunity to invest in much needed services and support for Newham’s vulnerable children a0nd young people. The DfE would not award any of the grant to the Council if the programme was not delivered.   b)  Option 2: Accept the grant but allocate it to internal services only. This option would not be in accordance with the requirement of the DfE grant as it would not provide sufficient HAF provision, nor would it provide a diverse enough range of activities or specialist support.