Councils are concerned that the most vulnerable families are missing out on benefits of their holiday activity and food (HAF) schemes for low-income families.

Those running the Department for Education funded HAF programme, which offers activities and meals out of term time, noted improvements in attendance when children returned to school.

There was also a positive impact on children’s self-esteem, healthy eating, and on inclusivity for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who took part.

Another benefit is workers being able to signpost other welfare support and advice services available.

But councils are concerned the most vulnerable families in their area are less likely to be involved, due to transport problems reaching sessions, digital exclusion and lack of awareness, as well as stigma around taking part.

The Local Government Association (LGA), which gathered councils’ feedback, warned that ‘data-sharing limitations between local authorities, schools, and central government are also restricting the ability of councils to identify all eligible families in their area’.

In August the Government committed to extending the HAF programme for a further three years.

The LGA is calling on ministers to ensure it provides clear national guidance on how councils and others offering support services can link up to support families involved.

Councils also need ‘sufficient flexibility around eligibility and duration of provision to meet local need’.

More investment in data collection and evaluation looking at the programme’s impact on issues such as hunger, physical activity and employment is also needed, said the local government body.

‘As we enter another three years of the HAF programme, it is vital that we tackle the barriers to access and efficiency,’ said LGA health and wellbeing committee chair, Cllr Wendy Taylor.

LGA children, young people and families committee chair. Amanda Hopgood. added that feedback from councils shows ‘just how essential’ the programme is ‘in supporting vulnerable children, offering healthy, nutritious and affordable food while also providing vital wraparound, holistic support for families during the school holidays’.