Walsall FC Foundation have continued to provide free opportunities for young people, this time through their Easter holiday camps and the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
The HAF programme run by Walsall Council is a government-funded initiative designed to support children during the school holidays. It provides a safe and engaging environment where children can take part in a wide range of activities while also receiving a free, healthy meal each day they attend.
Walsall FC Foundation has been involved with the programme for a number of years, helping to provide free food and childcare to families in need within the local community. Through the HAF programme, the Foundation welcomed Kayden to their Soccer Schools camps, which run throughout the school holidays.
Through the support of RayGray Snacks and the Holiday and Play initiative, the Foundation delivered 640 hours of extended provision across our Easter holiday football camps, offering vital additional support to children and families.
Before joining the programme, Kayden often struggled with his behaviour, emotional regulation, and finding ways to keep himself occupied. His family were keen to find structured activities during term time and holidays to help channel his energy in a more positive and constructive way.
This term, Kayden secured a place at the Easter Soccer Schools camps, which proved to be an excellent fit given his passion for football. Since attending, noticeable improvements have been seen in both his behaviour and overall attitude. He appears more engaged and is clearly benefiting from the structured activities provided.
Kayden now looks forward to each session and embraces the challenges and opportunities they bring. He has demonstrated improved behaviour and increased motivation across different areas of his life. Overall, the experience has been extremely positive, and it is clear he is benefiting both personally and socially from his involvement in the HAF programme.
Kayden’s mother, Kimberley, spoke about the positive effects of the HAF programme, “Kayden himself recognises the impact the programme has had on him. He has begun to reflect more on his actions and responses to various situations. He has also identified his strengths in football, discovering that he is well-suited to playing in defence. This has boosted his confidence, as he feels more comfortable and capable in this role.
“I would highly recommend the HAF programme to other families. It offers a wonderful experience for children, especially those passionate about football. The additional elements, such as rewards and recognition, are excellent motivators that encourage positive behaviour.”
On Saturday 11th April, Kayden was invited to the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium as the Foundation’s Community Mascot. He enjoyed a kickabout with the other mascots and Swifty before walking out alongside Connor Barrett. He then took his seat to watch the Walsall FC face Cheltenham Town, making it a memorable and rewarding experience.
