The summer weather has well and truly arrived and Labour has just launched the Great British Savings Scheme to help families with some discounted attractions and meals out during the coming months.
Many of the savings kicked in last Thursday, and it’s designed specifically to make a day out for the family simpler to arrange and a little more affordable.
I know many families are still struggling with the cost-of-living squeeze and as a result the fun treats or luxuries fall by the wayside.
This scheme is about helping families enjoy time together and make memories with their little ones this summer, along with ensuring those businesses who depend on summer footfall are also being supported.
So, from now until September 1, VAT will be slashed on eligible activities, helping mums, dads and the children enjoy weekend treats and other activities.
The arrangements are targeted to reduce the costs of children’s meals in restaurants and children’s and family tickets for cinemas, soft play, adventure centres and theme parks over the summer months.
Many venues are getting involved. Local independent outlets, as well as big chains and I hope to see as many as possible passing on these savings to customers.
Big national attractions including Blackpool Tower, Madame Tussauds, Go Ape, Alton Towers and Legoland are taking part.
In addition, children aged between five and 15 will be able to travel free on local bus services throughout August.
Our Stagecoach bus operation is taking part in the scheme, and no prior registration is needed – children between those ages accompanied by their parents can just hop on and off for free.
This comes on top of the Labour government’s wider support to help families with the cost of living. That includes cutting £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescription charges, fuel duty and rail fares.
We are able to do this because we have made the right choices, with the UK having the fastest-growing economy in the G7.
Many of our families with children are also receiving help from Labour’s roll-out of 30 hours of government-funded childcare, free breakfast clubs, and the extension of free school meals – meaning more money in parents’ pockets.
We have so much to enjoy in Barrow and Furness, from our beautiful coastline to historic sites– and across the country – so I hope the Great British Saving Scheme will help families do just that.
If there’s anything you need help with then please get in contact by sending an email to: michelle.scrogham.mp@parliament.uk