Political Opinion: Families in Hemel set to enjoy Labour's Great British Summer Savings

Families in Hemel Hempstead will enjoy discounted attractions and meals out, with the Labour government’s ‘Great British Summer Savings’ scheme ongoing.

Ahead of the school holidays, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves has temporarily slashed VAT on kids’ menu meals, children’s cinema and theatre tickets, and tickets for attractions like soft play, adventure centres, and theme parks this summer.

This includes Cineworld and Nando's at Jarmans Park. The scheme has been welcomed by local MP David Taylor.

In addition, children aged between five to 15 years old will be able to travel free on local bus services throughout August – making it easier and more affordable for people to get out and about.

This will help families enjoy the weekend treats, the days out, and the small plans that make life enjoyable during the cost of living squeeze while supporting the businesses that depend on summer footfall.

The scheme will run from 25 June until 1 September 2026 and 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. Many families with children are also benefiting from Labour’s rollout of 30 hours of government-funded childcare, free breakfast clubs, and the extension of free school meals – meaning more money in parents’ pockets.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: “Whether it is a fun day out, a family meal or a visit to one of the thousands of amazing attractions across the UK, Great British Summer Savings will support families with the little treats this summer while boosting business across the UK.

“This comes on top of support Labour has already put in place, including freezing fuel duty, taking off £117 off energy bills, freezing prescriptions, 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.”

David Taylor, Labour MP for Hemel Hempstead, said: “This is about backing both families and local businesses in Hemel Hempstead. By making meals out and attractions more affordable, we can help families enjoy the summer while driving more footfall to restaurants and venues across our town. It’s a real win-win. I’d encourage as many local businesses as possible to take part.”

The VAT rate on eligible activities will be cut from 20 per cent to five per cent, and applies across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The reduced rate will apply to:

• Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises

• Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions

• Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including: amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.

This money-saving package supports families, while also supporting businesses through increased footfall. The government has said it expects businesses to pass on VAT savings to customers.