Lewisham residents are being urged to sign up to a discount card that can give up to 50 per cent off in local independent shops and businesses across the borough.
The Lewisham Local card, being relaunched this week, can save users more than £500 a year according to its organisers.
Stores from areas such as Bellingham and Downham, Blackheath, Brockley, Crofton Park, Catford, Deptford, New Cross, Forest Hill, Honor Oak, Grove Park, Ladywell and Hither Green all offer the discount.
Paula Segre, Lewisham Local Card lead, said: “At the moment, we have over 800 independent businesses, over 1000 individuals, and over 300 community groups signed up.
She said she used the card in a variety of New Cross businesses, adding: “I was based in New Cross, that’s where I did most of my shopping, and I really enjoyed New Cross House, Deli X and the Greenhouse [in Deptford]”.
ORDRS, a delivery service which brings groceries from local stores to the doorstep said of the card: “As well as boost the awareness of our business and getting me customers who are passionate about supporting local business, Lewisham Local has allowed us to be a part of a BIG vision that empowers the local community”.
Beyond the discounts, the Lewisham Local card benefits local businesses and community groups too. The discounts encourage spending in the local areas and provides a network of independent businesses.
A percentage of the money paid for the card will go towards community projects in the local area.
The card is free for people who volunteer in Lewisham, and now those who don’t volunteer can get a card following a £20 donation.
Segre said that the card will still be valid with those businesses offering online and delivery services over lockdown.
Fifty per cent of the proceeds go into a New Community Fund and donors will have a chance to choose which project the money goes towards. The project with the most votes receives funding.
Segre said: “There will be a meter on the website where card holders can regularly check how much has been raise. Once we reach £5000, we will be able to start, [giving] it out to the community projects. So in that way we ensure that we can run the project regularly every three months.”
The card is valid for one year and you can register at any time.