Evaluation of the 2019 holiday activities and food programme

This document describes a comprehensive evaluation of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, designed to combat holiday hunger and learning loss among disadvantaged children, particularly those eligible for free school meals. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the evaluation by Ecorys UK assessed the programme's impact, revealing that it reached approximately 50,000 young people in 2019, with 41% being FSM eligible. Despite challenges such as initial setup and engagement, the programme was positively received, with reports of various benefits. The evaluation also emphasized the need for targeted promotion and partnerships to reach eligible children. A separate analysis using National Pupil Database and provider surveys found that the HAF programme effectively targeted deprived communities, with most attendees participating in multiple sessions. However, barriers such as parental support and transportation were noted. The funding improved the quality of activities and meals provided, though nutritional education varied. Providers faced challenges like weather and resources but still managed to engage children in diverse activities. The evaluation concluded that the HAF programme was successful in providing access to food and activities, but improvements in delivery and engagement are needed, along with strategies for long-term sustainability. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation; Process evaluation
• Impact methods: Quasi-experimental method
• Quasi-experimental methods: Difference-in-difference
• Process methods: Case studies; Individual interviews; Surveys and polling
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: December 2020

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Links to published evaluations (DEBUGGING): No final report link found.
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes