Supporting HAF across Andrew Simpson Centres in 2024

Sailing at the Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre © Andrew Simpson Foundation

All of the not-for-profit Andrew Simpson Centres are proud to deliver Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) sessions on behalf of local councils to enable children from low-income families the opportunity to experience different watersport sessions.

The purpose of the HAF programme is to make free places at holiday clubs available in the Summer, Easter, and Christmas holiday periods to children in their local authority area in receipt of benefits-related free school meals. This year we have been able to provide a record number of HAF sessions, creating opportunities for more young people to experience watersports. Our centres across the country have been delivering HAF sessions all year, and they are a key part of our delivery.

Portland

At ASC Portland, we are proud to offer local children with the opportunity to take part in sailing, kayaking and giant paddleboarding over the Summer and Easter holidays. Our sessions are more than just fun on the water—they're about building teamwork, enhancing communication skills, and boosting water confidence.

This year saw an increase of demand for our HAF sessions. Fortunately, we were able to gain further funding allowing more young people to get on the water. This wouldn't have been possible without support from Dorset Council. We are hopeful to continue this partnership and welcome more young people to the centre next year.

Birmingham

ASC Birmingham are so grateful to the Bring It On Brum HAF project, who funded 256 free watersports sessions for young people this summer. These sessions are of vital importance, now more than ever, in keeping the next generation engaged in the outdoors, face-to-face connection, and exercise, all of which bring enormous benefits to physical and mental health.

Having welcomed 65 young people to the centre this summer, in addition to partnering with Bring It On Brum, StreetGames, and Paddle UK to deliver a free Watersports Festival in September, ASC Birmingham are keen to keep the momentum of HAF going and hope to expand the project in Easter 2025 and beyond.

Reading

The ASC Reading team really love delivering HAF sessions as a fantastic way in engaging the local community in sport throughout the holidays. It's great to introduce different people to watersports and see their water confidence develop during their time here. We welcomed 34 young people taking part in 256 sessions during the summer holidays.

They got to try a range of activities including sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking. We hope to continue to work with West Berkshire Council on this amazing project.

Sailing at the Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre - photo © Andrew Simpson Foundation

Portsmouth

ASC Portsmouth had a remarkable year delivering the HAF programme, welcoming 168 of the city's most vulnerable young people. This initiative provided a transformative experience, allowing participants to explore a variety of exciting activities, from sailing and kayaking to climbing and team-building games, all while enjoying nutritious meals with their peers.

Thanks to generous funding from the Household Support Fund, an additional 60 young people from the city's most underprivileged areas were able to experience the joy of being on the water. Parents have valued the programme, noting how their children returned home brimming with confidence and enthusiasm. One parent shared, "My child came back thrilled with her achievements on the water and couldn't wait to tell me all about it. It was a great confidence boost!"

The impact of these experiences is profound, fostering not only skills but also friendships and self-esteem among participants. ASC Portsmouth is deeply grateful for the unwavering support from the HAF team at Portsmouth City Council, which has been instrumental in making this program a success.

As we look ahead, we eagerly await confirmation of funding for 2025, committed to continuing this vital initiative that empowers our youth and enriches our community. Together, we are creating lasting memories and inspiring the next generation to embrace new challenges and opportunities.

If you are interested in finding out more about our charitable programmes, or keen to get involved in supporting the participation of young people, don't hesitate to contact us