Voucher initiative aims to boost demand for off-peak domestic breaks
HOTELIERS are being encouraged to sign up to a Scottish Government-funded holiday voucher scheme offering subsidised two-night breaks for low-income families, unpaid carers and disadvantaged young people.
The Scottish Government has allocated £1.4 million to the ‘ScotSpirit’ initiative, which it said aims to help hospitality businesses recover from the impact of the pandemic by boosting demand for off-peak domestic breaks.
Part of the £25 million tourism recovery programme announced by the first minister in March 2021, the scheme is being administered by VisitScotland and is open to hotels, B&Bs and guest houses across Scotland. Businesses can register for the scheme at www.visitscotland.org/about-us/what-we-do/working-in-partnership/scotspirit-voucher-scheme
VisitScotland said participating businesses will be paid for any booking made directly through the scheme.
Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, said the ScotSpirit scheme offers a range of benefits.
“Not only will you generate income for your business but you will also provide long-lasting memories for people who don’t often get to experience a holiday,” he said.
“Tourism is a force for good – creating economic and social value in every corner of Scotland and enhancing the wellbeing of everyone who experiences it.”
Tourism minister Ivan McKee encouraged businesses to sign up to the initiative.
“Not only will you be providing a welcome break for those who need it, but you’ll also generate income for your business and stimulate demand during the quieter winter months,” he said.
“Whether you’ve got a hotel in the city, a hostel in the countryside or perhaps a B&B on the coast, do get involved and support the ScotSpirit holiday voucher scheme, if you can.”
The Scottish Government announced last week that it has also allocated £4m to a new ‘Days Out’ scheme designed to boost visitor numbers to tourist attractions during the winter months; and £3m for a domestic marketing campaign promoting Scotland as a year-round destination.
