PARTICIPANTS on Clackmannanshire Council’s employability programmes have saved themselves up to £60,000 in just three months following referral.

The money advice service is delivered on behalf of the council by Clackmannanshire Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).

The service is a fundamental part of employability support offered by Clackmannanshire Works and aims to encourage users to better manage their money and gain confidence entering the job market.

Participants have reported the one-to-one support provided by CAB has helped them manage debt, maximise income, find out if they are accessing any benefits they are entitled to and to better manage their own finances.

Clackmannanshire Works has managed to support over 600 people and around half of them have benefitted from a referral to the money advice service, with reports of more than £60,000 saved since April of this year.

Participants to the service are aged between 16-67, providing a dedicated helpline for those just entering work or anyone who has been out of employment for some time.

The service can cater to school leavers looking for work experience or apprenticeships, unemployed working age adults who need support to overcome a range of barriers to employment and parents looking to increase their income.

Councillor Ellen Forson, leader of Clackmannanshire Council, said: “It is wonderful to hear this partnership between Clackmannanshire Works and CAB has been so beneficial to people in our communities, especially to those who have been previously disadvantaged in the labour market.

“As a council, we are committed to unlocking the potential of all our people and supporting them on their journey to a better and brighter future.

“Clackmannanshire Works’ key workers and our partners at CAB are working hard together to ensure the best possibly outcomes for participants and I hope this partnership approach will continue to be constructive and fruitful.”