Dumfries and Galloway citizens with an NEC can have sQuid eMoney added to their NEC, enabling them to pay for small value items in addition to accessing public services like concessionary travel, library membership and leisure centre membership. Dundee Council launched this scheme in September 2008, and Dumfries and Galloway are expecting the same success.

The sQuid payment service is a quick and simple process and allows users to pay for things at participating outlets electronically from a pre-loaded purse on their card, without the need to carry loose change. This will benefit the community and encourage people to use their local merchants. The transactions are very fast, secure and can be managed from an online sQuid account, with loading available in-store if required.

Sid Bulloch, Manager of the NEC Programme said that "NEC are happy to see this scheme rolling out across Dumfries and Galloway after the successful implementation in Dundee and are pleased and happy to support this initiative".

Dumfries and Galloway will be the third UK launch zone for sQuid, following the success of schemes in Bolton and Dundee.

Ivor Hyslop, Chair of Corporate Policy Committee and Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council said "The addition of sQuid eMoney to the National Entitlement Card in Dumfries and Galloway demonstrates a progressive use of the NEC, adding value to our card holders. By extending the use of applications on the NEC we are making life easier for the citizens of Dumfries and Galloway".

In the near future, there will be opportunities for the card to be used for further projects, such as travel and loyalty schemes. There are also talks to incorporate sQuid into cashless catering schemes in local schools in the Dumfries and Galloway area.