Chiefs community team to help the local area with summer HAF programme

Our Exeter Chiefs Community team will continue to help to enrich the lives of local children throughout the summer holidays as they deliver their Holiday Activities and Food [HAF] programme.

The initiative is a government-funded programmes which provides free holiday activities and healthy meals for our most vulnerable young people across Devon who are eligible for free school meals.

HAF provides a key opportunity for them to stay engaged and active throughout the summer months while in a safe and supportive environment. The programme is designed to nurture their skills and personal development while also providing a nutritious meal straight from the Sandy Park kitchen.

Community development coach Nick Gillard said: “This is such an incredible initiative for our team to be involved with at Exeter Chiefs, ensuring our most vulnerable young people across the country have access to meaningful physical activity and get a nutritious meal.

“It’s fantastic to see children arrive, often a little nervous, and leave full of confidence after just one day.

“Whether they’re trying a new sport, making new friends or simply enjoying being active, HAF gives every young person the chance to have a positive holiday experience. We’re really proud to deliver that on behalf of the club.”

As with a lot of the work that the community team does throughout the South West, the HAF programme utilises sport as a hook to engage young people, creating a positive impact on their physical literacy journey. Incorporating rugby into a multi-sports and team-building structure, young people are encouraged to build their confidence, stay active and benefit from the positives of consistent teamwork.

Across 13 days during the August school holidays, the programme will be expertly delivered at eight locations in and around Devon with deliveries ranging from 09:00-13:00 to 09:30-15:00.

The locations will be:

• North Tawton
• Moretonhampstead
• Torrington
• Kingsbridge
• Tavistock
• Plymstock Oaks
• West Buckland
• Exeter Athletic

For more information, visit the community page on our website here or contact Devon County Council here.