The Scottish Government has launched a holiday voucher scheme to help boost tourism by offering subsidised breaks around Scotland. 

With vouchers available to low income families, unpaid carers and disadvantaged young people, businesses can sign up to participate in the scheme. 

It aims to offer those who don't often get holidays the chance to explore a new part of Scotland, as well as boosting tourism in the off-season. 

The scheme forms part of a £25 million tourism recovery package announced by the first minister and is completely funded by the Scottish Government. 

Here's what we know about the holiday voucher initiative...

Which businesses can sign up to the scheme?

A range of tourist venues can participate in the scheme, including bed and breakfasts, guest houses, hotels, hostels, camping parks and visitor attractions. 

These businesses will be paid by the Scottish Government for any booking made directly through the holiday voucher initiative. 

Who can benefit from the holiday vouchers? 

Charities such as Family Holiday Association and Shared Care Scotland will help to ensure those most in need of the subsidised trips get the vouchers.

Applications on behalf of low income families, unpaid carers and disadvantaged young people will be accepeted once enough businesses have signed up for the scheme. 

Why is VisitScotland encouraging businesses to sign up for the scheme?

VisitScotland is encouraging businesses around Scotland to sign up to the scheme to boost both tourism and morale. 

Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: "We’re encouraging as many tourism businesses as possible to be part of the ScotSpirit Holiday Voucher Scheme.

"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.

"Tourism is a force for good – creating economic and social value in every corner of Scotland and enhancing the well-being of everyone who experiences it.

"Tourism makes Scotland richer, economically and socially, and without it Scotland would be a much poorer place."