How HAF Fun Pompey is a gift to Portsmouth this Christmas

The programme, run by Portsmouth City Council and funded by the Department for Education, offers free enriching activities and nutritious meals to children receiving benefits-related free school meals in the PO1 to PO6 areas. With an exciting range of activities, bespoke festive gift bags, and unique family-focused initiatives, this year’s programme is set to create memorable experiences for local children and their families.

This winter, children will have access to an array of activities tailored to engage and inspire. Highlights include SEND gymnastics, basketball, multi-sports, adventure days at Fort Purbrook, trips to the pantomime, and much more. These activities are designed to encourage physical activity, social connection, and creativity, while providing much-needed support to families during the festive season.

To add to the holiday cheer, each participating child will receive a bespoke gift bag tailored to their age. These reusable bags, branded with the HAF logo and a space for personalisation, include thoughtful and practical items:

• Branded water bottles to promote hydration.
• Healthy eating plates with nutritional tips and portion guidance.
• Pedometers to encourage physical activity.
• Card games for screen-free play.
• Books curated for their age group to inspire a love of reading.

Cllr Steve Pitt Leader of the Council with responsibility for Culture and Economic Development said:  “HAF Fun Pompey is a lifeline to thousands of families in Portsmouth every season, but this winter it feels even more impactful. These gift bags will hopefully not only spread a bit of festive joy but they also align with the programme’s goals of promoting health and well-being.”

While HAF Fun Pompey focuses on children, the organisers have been thoughtful with the money provided, strategically using it to have maximum impact across Portsmouth. The programme collaborates with local activity providers and suppliers, ensuring that funding circulates within Portsmouth’s economy while delivering meaningful experiences to its attendees.

HAF programmes are a national initiative, however unique to HAF Fun Pompey is the inclusion of family days, where parents and guardians can join their children in activities at no cost. These shared experiences aim to strengthen family relationships and create lasting memories.

Portsmouth’s programme has also been extended through additional funding from the Household Support Fund. This has and continues to enable families and young people who do not qualify for free school meals to access the programme at certain times, broadening the impact of this valuable initiative.

Cllr Pitt added: “HAF Fun Pompey continues to show Portsmouth’s innovative approach to national initiatives. By tailoring the programme to the needs of the community, the council ensures that children, families, and the wider city benefit in countless ways.”

Families in PO1 to PO6 are encouraged to register for HAF Fun Pompey this winter and take advantage of the enriching activities and festive opportunities still available to book. Some HAF Fun Pompey providers offer paid-for spaces for those who don’t receive benefits-related free school meals. For more information about what’s on offer and to see if you’re eligible for free spaces, visit the HAF Fun Pompey website.