Rotherham United Community Trust’s (RUCT) Healthy Holiday’s Programme (HAF) programme continues to make a lasting impact on families across our community. With bookings now open for our December HAF camps, we’re excited to have caught up with some families after they were invited down to wave the flag at an RUFC home match! They shared some inspiring stories as parents who have seen the positive difference the programme has made for their children.
For Eloise, the HAF programme was a perfect fit for her football-loving children, particularly her two sons, who are both autistic. “They find it hard to follow instructions and hate travelling,” she explained. “When the programme was within walking distance, I decided to give it a try.”
The results were transformational. “The first year, Aaron struggled and barely took part, but the staff were amazing. They encouraged him and gave him the space he needed to adjust,” Eloise shared. “The following year, Aaron’s confidence and ball skills improved so much that he’s now joined a football team and is becoming a valued player.”
The programme’s impact extends beyond football skills. For Nashat, the HAF camps provided opportunities for her children to develop confidence and social skills. “Their confidence has grown through trying new sports and activities, and their social skills have improved from interacting with a range of people,” she said.
One of the standout elements of the HAF programme is its ability to engage children with new experiences. “What they enjoy the most is learning new tricks,” said Eloise. “It’s exciting for them to develop skills they can show off and practice at home.”
In addition to being enjoyable and educational for children, the HAF programme is a valuable resource for parents. Nashat praised the programme for helping with childcare during working hours. “It’s enjoyable for the children and provides much-needed support with childcare,” she said.
The free meals provided as part of the HAF initiative also play a crucial role in supporting families. Eloise highlighted the difference this made during the summer: “The free meals helped us massively over the six weeks of holidays. Keeping the kids entertained and fed adds up to a substantial cost we don’t always have.”
Eloise has already been encouraging other parents to get involved. “I recommended the programme to parents at our school, and quite a few attended. At first, the girls were unsure about playing football, but they came out saying they enjoyed it and would like to do it again.”
Bookings Now Open for December HAF Camps!
If you’re looking for a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment for your children this holiday season, our December HAF camps are now open for bookings. From skill-building activities to free meals and a chance to make new friends, the HAF programme is designed to support families and inspire children to thrive.
Visit HOLIDAY CAMPS | Winter Camps 2024! – Rotherham United Community Trust to secure your place today!
