ONE hundred businesses in Inverclyde have signed up to a rewards scheme for Inverclyde's army of carers.

People who look after loved ones, friends and neighbours can take part in the new carers passport scheme.

Once they are registered as members they can enjoy money off in beauty salons, discounts on meals out and free cups of tea at popular visitor attractions.

Inverclyde Carers' Centre launched the scheme in a bid to help carers, as well as encouraging people to spend money in the local shops and businesses.

Cardwell Garden Centre was proud to be among those to sign up to the new passport scheme.

Director Kieran Gallagher said: “Carers are the unsung heroes of our communities and we pay tribute to each and every one of them.

“A free cup of tea or coffee at Cardwell is our way of doing our bit to care for the carers.

“We’ve had quite a few carers visit Cardwell and we hope the relaxed atmosphere among the plants and flowers goes some way to help recharge their batteries for all the fantastic work they do.”

Cardwell are joined on the growing list by the likes of Greenock town centre restaurant 134 Steak House who offer a 25 per cent discount.

High street butchers and bars have also joined in the scheme along with florists.

Sixteen beauty salons across Gourock, Greenock and Port Glasgow offer a range of incentives.

In the health and wellbeing section there are discounts for physiotherapy and chiropractics and Your Voice offer three hours free use of Shopmobility equipment.

Inverclyde Leisure are also involved in the scheme along with bowling clubs, golf clubs and kids soft plays.

Clothing shops have joined as well as opticians, car mechanics, craft shops and others.

So far there 500 unpaid carers signed up to use the passport scheme.

It is believed there are thousands of unpaid carers across Inverclyde.

Co-ordinator Stuart McInnes said: "We are always looking for more businesses to sign up.

"It has been very well received so far and to have 100 supporters is great.

"We also want to show our support for local businesses - most carers will spend money locally."

To find out more about the Inverclyde Carers' Centre Passport Scheme contact Stuart on 735180.