An new online tool has been launched by the government to help diners find out which restaurants are taking part in the new 'Eat Out to Help Out' scheme throughout August.

Here's what you need to know.

What is the 'Eat Out to Help Out' scheme?

The Eat Out to Help Out scheme is a UK-wide plan backed by the UK government that is aimed at encouraging people to eat out again.

It plans to support 100,000 businesses nationwide, and help protect 1.8 million employee jobs.

When will it run?

The scheme will run every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between August 3 and 31, 2020.

What discounts can you get?

The scheme will get 50 per cent off your food and non-alcoholic drinks up to a total value of £10 per person if you eat or drink in.

The discount also applies to children.

It can be used as many times as you like.

According to the UK Government website: "You don’t need a voucher to use the scheme and you can use it at the same time as other offers and discounts.

"There is no minimum spend.

"Alcoholic drinks and service charges are excluded from the offer."

What types of places are involved in the scheme?

The places that are allowed to take part include:

  • Restaurants
  • Cafes
  • Pubs that serve food
  • Hotel restaurants
  • Restaurants with cafes within tourist attractions, holiday sites and leisure facilities
  • Dining rooms within members' clubs
  • Workplace and school canteens

Which places are not involved in the scheme?

The places that won't be involved are:

  • Establishments that only offer takeaway food and/or drink
  • Catering services for private funcations
  • Hotels that provide 'room service' only
  • Dining services (such as packaged dinners on cruises)
  • Mobile food vans/trailers

How to find out which restaurants near you are taking part

Visit https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-to-help-out/find-a-restaurant for more information.