50,000 visitors access zoos using universal credit scheme

Over 50,000 people have visited Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park, thanks to a discounted ticket offer for anyone receiving universal credit.

The scheme was launched by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) last summer to help more people enjoy the benefits of being close to nature.

Ben Supple, the wildlife conservation charity’s deputy chief executive, said: “The cost-of-living crisis has made it more difficult for people to access green spaces.

“While we were confident that our universal credit ticket offer would be popular, we have been blown away by the huge demand.

“Welcoming more than 50,000 visitors to Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park through the promotion has been incredible.”

Reduced price entry is available for anyone on universal credit, income-related employment and support allowance, income-based jobseeker's allowance, housing benefit, working tax credit, child tax credit and income support.  

Tickets are £7 per person, which is a discount of 70% for adults and 55% for children.

“Experiencing nature can have enormous physical and mental health benefits, which is why this offer is so important,” said Supple.

“The social impact is also significant, and we have been touched by stories from children and adults about how special their visits have been.

“One parent told us that visiting Edinburgh Zoo to see some of the world’s most amazing animals had made their daughter’s dream come true.

“Another was thrilled because their son would finally have a summer story to tell on his first day back at primary school.”

Find out more about booking universal credit tickets for Edinburgh Zoo or  Highland Wildlife Park.