The FHA is the only national charity dedicated to helping  disadvantaged families access holidays.

Who do we help?

The FHA helps to provide holidays for economically and socially deprived children with their families. Typically, the families are suffering severe financial hardship and with extra difficulties such as long-term or terminal illness, violence or abuse, depression, disability or overcrowded and and inadequate housing. Currently, the FHA helps about 1,200 families a year - around 5,000 individuals - to have what is often their first ever family holiday.

How do we help?

• by providing grants: the FHA makes a modest grant towards the cost of a holiday.

• lobbying and campaigning: the FHA is involved in raising the profile of its work, and in raising awareness with the public and government of the benefits of holidays for those in need.

• by working with others: the FHA works with local authorities, GPs, social workers, voluntary and statutory bodies, the media,  and other like-minded agencies both here and in the rest of Europe.

The way it works 

Applications for holidays for families in need are referred to the FHA from various welfare sources such as social workers, GPs, health visitors and both voluntary and statutory agencies. Referrals also come from national charities such as Barnardos and Family Welfare Association as well as smaller local voluntary organisations.

The FHA responds to the applications by making funds available to the welfare agencies, who help the families with holiday bookings and arrangements. FHA grants helps to cover the cost of accommodation, travel and food money for one week, usually at a UK seaside holiday centre or caravan site run by organisations like Butlins or Haven. Alternatively, the FHA may help to fund a break in another area, perhaps with relatives.

The FHA makes a point of offering families a choice of holidays and they are encouraged to involve themselves in choosing and organising their break, just like everyone else. Family identity is also protected so there is no danger of stigma.

See Our Services page