Eat Out to Help Out Scheme

As part of his plans to help the hospitality sector to recover, Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. This is intended to get people back into eating at restaurants and similar venues by offering a discount on meals. This scheme is set to take effect from 3 August and is currently set to run until 31 August (though this may be extended at a later date).

To qualify for the scheme, the business must have a dining area where food can be consumed on the premises. The business must also have been registered as a food business with their local authority no later than 7 July. Establishments that only offer takeaway are not eligible. Businesses where food is only offered in private areas, such as hotel room service or as catering at a private function, will also not qualify.

The scheme offers diners a discount of 50% (up to a maximum of £10 per diner) at participating businesses. This discount is available all-day Monday to Wednesday in the scheme period and there is no limit to how many times any given individual can take advantage of the offer. Food and non-alcoholic drinks are included, but alcohol and service charges are specifically excluded. Vouchers and other discounts can be used at the same time, but these must be deducted before determining the Eat Out to Help Out discount. The registered business will be able to claim back discounts offered under the scheme from the government.

Businesses wishing to offer the scheme can register now here. Diners wishing to take advantage of the scheme can find a list of local participating venues by entering their postcode here.