AN ADVICE service earmarked for cuts in the Wee County has been recognised for its high standards, understood to be a first in the wider area.

Clackmannanshire Citizens Advice Bureau was successful in getting accredited by the Scottish Government for the quality of advice and representation provided in areas of money and debt, housing as well as welfare benefits.

The free service, which could lose income covering 60 per cent of its core costs if proposed council cuts to community groups and the third sector go ahead, was accredited under the Scottish National Standards for Information and Advice Providers (SNSIAP) assurance framework.

It is now rated type III under the new model, which is being implemented following audits by the Scottish Legal Aid Board.

It recognises the high standard of service and the quality of management processes and procedures, recognising the hard work of staff as they continue to improve their advice service.

Jonny Miller, managing director at Clacks CAB, said: "We are delighted to be awarded type III accreditation under this new model.

"We feel this recognises the high standard of advice, representation and hard work our paid staff and volunteers provide to clients, along with the strong governance of the board of directors and management.

"We are among a small number of organisations across Scotland to have successfully undertaken this new model.

"At present we are currently unaware of any other organisations within Forth Valley with this level of accreditation."