A handle assembly for a vacuum cleaner that includes a handle, a duct, a valve assembly, and a cover. The handle is attached to the duct, which has an inlet end, an outlet end, and a bleed aperture between. The valve assembly includes a valve and an actuator. The valve is moveable between closed and open positions by the actuator to close and open the bleed aperture. The cover surrounds the duct such that an upper part overlies the bleed aperture and valve. Holes are formed in a lower part of the cover. Suction at the outlet causes a primary airflow to be drawn into the duct via the inlet. When the valve is in the open position, the suction causes a secondary airflow to be drawn in through the holes, around the space between the duct and the cover, and into the duct via the bleed aperture.