North Yorkshire HAF Team Showcases Best Practice at People’s Powerhouse Convention

On Tuesday 13 September, Alice Skaith, Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Coordinator, and Jane Ratcliffe, HAF Provider Lead, represented North Yorkshire at the People’s Powerhouse Convention in Scarborough, a significant regional event bringing together leaders, practitioners and communities from across the North. The convention focused on celebrating the strengths of northern communities and exploring how collaboration can help tackle the challenges faced by individuals and families across the region.

A particular highlight of the day was the opportunity for Alice and Jane to lead a workshop alongside two nationally recognised figures in the sector: Greta Defeyter OBE, Dean of Social Mobility Policy Engagement at Northumbria University and the architect of the Government’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme, and Andrew Forsey OBE, National Director of Feeding Britain and a leading advocate for addressing child food insecurity across the UK.

Together, they facilitated a thought-provoking discussion on the future of the HAF Programme, exploring the benefits of establishing HAF within legislation rather than relying on recurring funding cycles. The session highlighted the importance of ensuring that children eligible for free school meals continue to have access to nutritious food, enriching activities and vital support throughout school holidays.

The workshop also showcased North Yorkshire’s innovative, place-based approach to delivery, including the successful use of surplus food through FareShare to maximise resources and extend the reach of the programme. Discussions further explored the opportunities and challenges associated with free school meal eligibility, particularly in light of the evolving targeted and expanded offer.

The event provided an invaluable platform to share North Yorkshire’s achievements and influence national conversations around holiday provision. Both Greta Defeyter OBE and Andrew Forsey OBE were highly complimentary of the work being delivered across North Yorkshire, recognising the HAF team as an example of effective partnership working and impactful service delivery.

For Alice and Jane, the experience was a genuine career milestone and a proud opportunity to showcase the exceptional work taking place across North Yorkshire to support children, young people and families.

“To be invited to present alongside two of the most influential voices in holiday provision and food security was a tremendous honour. Their recognition of the work taking place in North Yorkshire is a testament to the dedication of our providers, partners and HAF team, who continue to make a real difference to the lives of children and families across the county.”