The government has reduced VAT from 20% to 5% on a range of family-friendly activities, including cinema and theatre tickets, attractions, and children's meals. The temporary cut, effective from 25 June to 1 September, is designed to help parents manage the cost of living during the school holidays.
How to Find Participating Venues
Parents can simply enter their postcode into the government's Summer Savings website to see a list of nearby venues offering reduced prices. The scheme covers the whole UK, with many Birmingham attractions and restaurants taking part.
Examples of Discounts in Birmingham
Nando's branches across Birmingham and the Black Country are offering 15% off their children's menu, while several other restaurants allow little ones to eat free. At the National Sea Life Centre in Brindley Place, midweek tickets start from as low as £16, and an adult and toddler ticket is now priced at £16.62, reduced from £19.
Major cinema chains are also participating, offering discounted tickets on a wide range of films. Additionally, children aged 15 and under in England can travel free on buses throughout August, further reducing the cost of days out.
Government Statement on Cost of Living
The government website stated: "We know that families across the country are feeling the impact of the cost of living – it's the number one issue impacting working people. It's why we're taking action to reduce everyday costs."
Additional Savings and Duration
The VAT reduction applies to all eligible purchases from 25 June until 1 September. This means families can benefit from lower prices on everything from a trip to the cinema to a meal out or a visit to a theme park. The initiative is part of a broader package of measures aimed at easing financial pressures on households.
Parents are encouraged to check the Summer Savings website regularly, as new venues may join the scheme. With the summer holidays stretching into September, families have plenty of time to take advantage of the discounts.
