A variety of healthy food was provided at our HAF Programmes over the last year.  Some providers cooked meals fresh, serving dishes like Jollof Rice with chicken and vegetables; fresh pasta in a tomato sauce and salad; roast dinners, Christmas dinner and spaghetti bolognaise. 

Some providers brought in outside caterers to provide the food.  Local companies were used like The Chunky Teapot, All Seasons Foods and Zoe Catering.  Providers have all the necessary food hygiene qualifications and can effectively cater for allergies or dietary requirements that children may have.  The food provided also encourages children to learn about different cultures, through the variety of foods made available.  Children get the opportunity to try new foods they wouldn’t at home.

Some of our providers were able to give leftover food to children to take home to feed themselves and their families in the evening.

Many of our providers have partnered with the Mayor’s Fund for London, who deliver Take and Make boxes to the providers, and they then distribute these amongst their families.  These contain ingredients for families to take home and cook a meal together. Sometimes the children are able to make them themselves, following the recipe and cooking the meal for their family, helping them to develop their culinary skills.

According to our feedback survey, the food was given an average rating of 4.32/ 5.  As part of our programme, we are always looking to improve the food offered to the children in our care, whilst also recognising that children have different preferences, and that taste is subjective. Most parents and children were happy with the food at the clubs they attended.