Oaks Children's Group wins regional HAF award

Herefordshire’s Oaks Children’s Group were selected as regional winners at the HAF (Holiday activity and food programme) awards. The team were invited along to the House of Commons on 18 May to receive their award.

Oaks were nominated by the council’s Talk Community for their work towards supporting the Here For Herefordshire holiday activities and food programme. The programme provides free activities for children aged 5 to 16 who receive means tested benefits. The programme is funded by the Department for Education and is co-ordinated by the Talk Community team, who work in partnership with local schools, sports clubs, outdoor educator, community organisations and childcare providers to offer children free fun activities during the school holidays.

The Oaks Children’s group, are a Leominster based charity who have been running the Herefordshire HAF programme since 2021. They offer a wide range of activities as part of their OAKS holiday club, providing a friendly safe and inclusive space, where children can grow their confidence and make new friends. 

OAKS Children’s Group Charity Manager, Margo Evans, said: “We are thrilled to be announced as regional winners of the HAF award. The HAF programme enables us to offer our inclusive activities and facilities to a wide range of children. We love seeing the children’s faces light up when they walk through the door and the invaluable friendships they make. We are so grateful to be part of the HAF programme, which helps us to support and make a difference for local children and their families.”

Amy Pitt, Service Director Communities at Herefordshire Council, added: “We are lucky to have great providers in Herefordshire, so selecting a single group for these awards was a challenge. However, we are delighted that OAKS Children’s Group in Leominster has been recognised for their exceptional work, as part of the county’s HAF programme. The fantastic range of activities our local organisations provide, which offer opportunities and support for children and young people, is simply outstanding. We’re grateful to the Department for Education for continuing to fund this vital and well received programme.”

Featured in the attached photo from left to right is Margo Evans and Sue Gopsill from OAKS and council employees, Rebecca Chambers and Nikki Stroud.