Families have been urged to make the most of the Government's summer holidays scheme before it ends on September 1. Chancellor John Healey has reminded people across the country that the Great British Summer Savings scheme will come to an end on that date.
What the scheme offers
The scheme was announced in July and launched in August, aiming to support families in enjoying summer activities despite rising living costs caused by the Iran war and other global turmoil. Throughout August, VAT on kids' meals in restaurants, as well as tickets for attractions like theatres and soft play, has been reduced from 20% to 5%. The scheme also provides free bus travel for children aged between five and 15.
Chancellor's call to families
Mr Healey said: "I want every family to get out and enjoy the bank holiday weekend by taking advantage of the final days of Great British Summer Savings."
He added: "This Government is determined to give people a bit of breathing space. So families can afford the days out that make the summer holidays special. Whilst giving our world-class attractions and businesses a welcome boost in trade."
Impact on businesses and families
The Government has listed more than 2,100 restaurants and attractions on its deal finder website as part of the scheme, where families can find discounts near them. On Thursday, August 27, the Chancellor visited the Haven Kiln Park holiday site in Pembrokeshire, as the company announced its customers across the UK had collectively saved £4 million as a result of the scheme.
Some 251,000 families have benefited from the savings across Haven sites UK-wide, and 39,000 families across Wales. Greene King, which is also participating in the scheme, said its customers had saved a cumulative £740,000, resulting from 1.1 million children's meals being sold and more than 80,000 entries to soft play areas.
