Hundreds of young people benefit from action-packed programme thanks to community interest companies
Hundreds of young people across Birmingham had an unforgettable summer in 2025, thanks to the continued success of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
Community interest companies 5Up, 9Up, Apex Up, Aura Up, Don’t Give Up and Elevated Up once again led the way, working alongside Birmingham City Council, StreetGames, and trusted community partners to deliver an action-packed schedule that supported disadvantaged children and young people across the city.
At the heart of the programme’s success was Chamber member Mahirs Experience, who provided nutritious hot meals each day to fuel activities and ensure no young person went hungry.
The programme blended food provision with a wide range of physical activities and enrichment opportunities designed to tackle holiday hunger, reduce isolation, and inspire confidence.
Young people took part in martial arts, football, creative workshops, dance, team games, and outdoor adventures, helping them to stay healthy, learn new skills, and build friendships.
One of this summer’s highlights was a new partnership with Padel Inn, where young people from 5Up visited the Great Bridge courts for their first taste of padel – the fastest-growing sport in England.
A Padel Inn spokesperson said: “For all, it was an entirely new experience, but the courts quickly filled with laughter, teamwork, and excitement.
“From beginners’ nerves to rallying with confidence, the young players showed just how inclusive and exhilarating Padel can be.
Our team loved guiding them through the game and seeing how quickly they enjoyed it. Padel’s unique blend of fitness, fun, and friendship makes it the perfect sport for everyone – no matter your age or experience. “
The programme also featured exciting sessions at Teamworks Birmingham, where young people took part in karting and laser tag.
Simone Schehtman from Teamworks said: “Teamworks Karting is delighted to support 5Up’s programme and deliver such positive experiences to disadvantaged young people.
“We can see they are inspired, gain confidence and opportunities to reach for higher goals and break down barriers of access. It imparts resilience and confidence to take forward in relationships and school. These are vital life skills.”
This summer also saw the introduction of the Rugby UNITED programme in partnership with North Midlands RFU and Moseley RFC.
Speaking about the collaboration, a spokesperson from North Midlands RFU said: “North Midlands RFU have been proud to work in partnership with the 5Up venues and Moseley RFC this summer in delivering a RFU initiative called the Rugby UNITED programme, which aims to offer more young people from ethnically diverse groups an opportunity to discover a love of rugby.
“Over the summer holidays, we have engaged with hundreds of young people over different venues, and it has been great to see children discovering the sport and everything it has to offer.”
To strengthen community engagement and create new learning opportunities, the programme welcomed visits from the Army Engagement Team based at Venning Barracks, Telford.
The team joined sessions in local venues, interacting directly with young participants and sharing their experiences.
Families praised the efforts of 5Up, 9Up, and their partners for ensuring that no young person was left behind during the summer break.
Parents highlighted the programme’s impact on children’s wellbeing, confidence, and friendships, while many young participants said the sessions were the highlight of their holidays.
