THOUSANDS of low-income households across East Renfrewshire will be receiving £100 gift cards from the local authority.

More than 4,500 homes will receive a gift card, that will be posted out automatically.

These cards can be used in businesses across East Renfrewshire that have joined the Scotland Loves Local scheme, which aims to encourage people to think local first and support businesses on their local high streets.

Currently, more than 50 East Renfrewshire retailers and restaurants have signed up and the council is encouraging more to join in the coming months.

READ MORE: 'Hunners of polis': Pair injured on busy Glasgow road as cops called to disturbance

A household will be eligible for the gift card if they are in receipt of council tax reduction, as of June 1, 2022.

Each eligible household will receive one £100 gift card. An activation code will be posted separately from Thursday, November 24.

Owen O’Donnell, East Renfrewshire council leader, said: “I am really pleased that we are able to support low-income households with this scheme.

“Not only will it benefit residents, but it will also boost the local economy with vital sales in the months ahead, so I’d encourage any business not already signed up, to do so.

“We’re committed to supporting the East Renfrewshire community as we recover from the pandemic and will offer any help, we can with tackling the cost-of-living crisis.”

READ MORE: Glasgow DJ first-ever to be given special gift by iconic Still Game stars

Tom Arthur, Scottish Government community wealth minister, added: “This scheme is supported by £1.47 million Scottish Government funding to boost economic recovery after the pandemic and help to address the cost-of-living crisis.

“The national Scotland Loves Local programme encourages people to think, choose and spend locally – retaining income in businesses and communities. The Scottish Government is supporting our communities as they help boost our economy.”

Local businesses can sign up for free at scotlandgiftslocal.com/business-sign-up.

Alternatively, email business@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk.