The green at Stoneleigh Park has been reshaped into a lively summer hub where children from across Oldham can eat, play and try new activities as part of the government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
Weekly sessions, practical support
Organised every Wednesday during the school holidays by Oldham Council in partnership with the Friends of Stoneleigh Park, the sessions provide a healthy lunch and a range of supervised activities. Families I spoke to over the course of the morning said the scheme had taken pressure off them over the holidays and given children chances to make new friends in a safe setting.
Community engagement and confidence-building
Among the visitors to the site was the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mark Llewellin, who met families and volunteers and watched activities taking place. His visit underlined the event’s wider aims — not simply keeping youngsters occupied, but creating positive encounters between children and local services.
“It was wonderful to see so many children enjoying themselves, making friends and taking part in activities that keep them active, happy and engaged during the school holidays.”
Children tried everything from sports and face-painting to a giant bouncy castle and helter-skelter. A particular draw was the opportunity to explore a police car and van; officers answered questions and spoke to youngsters about their work, helping to normalise contact with emergency services in an informal setting.
What the HAF organisers say
Carrie-Ann Varey, Holiday Activities and Food Manager for the council, explained that the programme’s aim goes beyond supervision — it is intended to promote healthy eating, boost confidence and open doors to fresh experiences for local children.
“The HAF programme is about much more than keeping children occupied during the school holidays. It’s about creating opportunities for children to be active, enjoy healthy food, build confidence and make new friends.”
- Who runs it: Oldham Council with local volunteers and community groups
- When: Every Wednesday during school holidays
- Key features: Free healthy lunch, sports, creative activities, police engagement
| Activity | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Sports | Physical activity, teamwork |
| Face-painting and crafts | Creative play, confidence |
| Police vehicle visits | Positive contact with officers |
Volunteers and council staff said take-up had been strong at Stoneleigh Park and that the presence of partner organisations made for a fuller experience for children. For parents juggling childcare and work during the holidays, the sessions have provided straightforward practical help — a meal for their child and a safe place to play.
As the summer continues, the council says it will keep running HAF sessions at community locations across Oldham, with the aim of reaching families who benefit most from additional holiday support.
