Accountants in Bedford

Eat Out To Help Out

From 3rd to 31st August, get a 50% discount when you eat-in at restaurants that are registered with the scheme

It’s hoped that the scheme will provide a boost to the struggling hospitality industry, now that the national lockdown is easing.

Key Points:

  • You get a 50% discount on food or non-alcoholic drinks to eat or drink in (up to a maximum of £10 discount per diner)
  • The scheme runs every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between 3rd and 31st August
  • There’s no minimum spend and you don’t have to order food to be eligible, for example a £3 coffee would cost £1.50 under the scheme.
  • You do not need a voucher to use this scheme and you can use it at the same time as other offers and discounts. There is no minimum spend.
  • The discount will be automatically available to you at participating establishments. Establishments will then claim a reimbursement from the government for the discount they’ve given you.
  • All diners in a group of any size can use the discount.
  • Establishments can choose whether to sign up, and can join the scheme at any point.

 

How Do I Register For The Scheme?

Head over to the Government website to register online.  You will need your Government Gateway user ID and password to hand. Once you have completed the online form, you will be registered immediately and given a registration reference number. Keep this number safe as you will need it when you claim back the reimbursement.  You will be able to claim the money back and have it refunded within five working days.

 

Which Food And Drink Places Are Taking Part?

Lots of local, independent pubs, restaurants and cafes are taking part, as well as big chains. To be eligible they must have a designated dining or drinking area, or access to one, and have been registered with their local authority since at least 7 July 2020. Businesses that have used the furlough scheme can apply.

More than 53,000 businesses have signed up to the promotion, which covers participating:

  • Restaurants (including those in hotels leisure centres and holiday parks)
  • Cafes
  • Bars and pubs that serve food
  • Canteens
  • Food halls with a seating area
  • Members’ clubs

A search tool allows people to search for participating local venues within a five-mile radius.

This may not pick up chain restaurants taking part in the scheme: https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-to-help-out/find-a-restaurant/

 

Why is ‘Eat Out To Help Out’ Being Introduced?

To help get struggling cafes, restaurants and pubs back on their feet.

Hospitality is one of the biggest employers in the UK and has been hit especially hard by the lockdown measures. In April 80% of venues closed, and 1.4 million hospitality workers have been placed on furlough, the highest proportion of any sector.

Some venues have been able to provide a takeaway service during lockdown. But this often means lower average spending per head and fewer people employed, and it is not an option for some businesses.

In August, when many premises will have reopened, the government hopes diners will be enticed in by the discount on offer. It also wants it to boost confidence in going out, and increase footfall at the quieter end of the week.

A recent survey suggested that many Britons felt uncomfortable about eating at a restaurant. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said just over two-in-10 adults were happy to have a sit-down meal.

The scheme is being used alongside other targeted help such as a cut in VAT for hospitality and tourism businesses. 

 

 

 

Accountants in Bedford