PEOPLE in the Wee County who are facing redundancy can access expert advice as part of a campaign from this week.

Clackmannanshire Citizens Advice Bureau (Clacks CAB) is spearheading a campaign on redundancy rights with a rising number of people concerned about their job security over the coming year.

The UK Government is also due to replace its Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme with the Job Support Scheme from November 1.

The former scheme has seen furlough payments of 80 per cent of an employee's regular wages paid, up to £2,500.

The support initiative due to be introduced will require employees to work at least one third of their usual hours while for every hour not worked the employer and the government will each pay one third of the employee's usual pay.

Jonny Miller, managing director at Clacks CAB, said: "We have seen a big increase in the numbers of people asking about redundancy and their employment rights since lockdown began.

"With the furlough measures about to start winding down we expect to see more redundancies now and it is really important that workers arm themselves with the information they need to make sure they are treated properly.

"Losing your job is an awful experience for anyone.

"You can feel lost, scared and often very alone.

"But our message in this campaign is that you are not alone.

"You have rights, and we are here to help you understand and demand those rights, and to help you enforce them if necessary.

"That's what our campaign this week is all about."

In a recent poll, Citizens Advice Scotland has found that nearly 40 per cent of Scottish workers are concerned about the future of their jobs over the next year.

Moreover, 84 per cent of those asked did not fully know or understand their rights when it comes to facing redundancy.

As part of the campaign, Clacks CAB is also publishing its top 10 tips to act as a checklist and starting point for people facing uncertainty.

An important aspect is to make sure people are not being picked for redundancy due to an unfair reason.

Those who have been employed at the same place for at least two years are also entitled for redundancy pay for instance.

People in the Wee County can visit clackscab.org.uk for the full list from Monday, October 26.

Those looking for advice can check the website for contact details or call 01259 219 404 between 10am and 3pm on weekdays.