The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme in Lincolnshire has been awarded Community Project of the Year for bringing golf to thousands of disadvantaged children and families.
Working with the Golf Foundation, PING and Golfway, the programme has ensured children on free school meals can access fun, inclusive golf sessions during Easter, summer and Christmas holidays.
Speaking after receiving the award from Golf Foundation President Nick Dougherty, Project Officer Sarah Tyrrell said:
“At our community events, children turn up from estates on their own wanting to try golf. At our last event, more than 300 people came, including 200 children – and they all wanted to try every golf activity. More and more are now saying golf is their favourite sport.”
In 2024,18 providers across 36 venues delivered golf, supported by training from the Golf Foundation. New for 2025, Glow Golf and scholarships have given children the chance to continue at clubs, with free equipment and coaching opportunities.
Sarah added:
“These are children who would never normally have access to golf. The enthusiasm of our providers has fed into the children, and the feedback has been incredible. Golf has become something new, exciting, and accessible for them.”
The project is proof of how partnerships can make golf a sport for everyone, breaking stereotypes and reaching communities that might otherwise be left behind.
