MORE people in Andover are looking for help with employment issues from the town’s Citizens Advice (CAB) as the recession bites deeper.

Mrs Angie Moon, manager of the Andover bureau, said: “There has been an increase in general enquiries about employment as opposed to anything specific.

“There have been a number of redundancies where people have come in to make sure that their employers are going through the process correctly.”

She is not sure what impact the closure of Woolworths will have in Andover, but as more people are being made redundant so queries about benefits and debt problems are increasing.

Experiences locally are being repeated throughout the south east with figures showing that since April, bureaux in the region have seen daily inquiries relating to redundancy increase by 115 per cent.

Citizens Advice chief executive David Harker said: “Rarely a day goes by without reports of yet another company announcing job cuts.

“In this current climate it’s imperative to know your rights and be able to access free advice if you have been made redundant or fear you may be.”

He added: “You can only be made redundant if your job disappears or your employer reduces its workforce.

“When your employer chooses who to make redundant, it is illegal to use selection criteria which discriminate against anyone because of their age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief.

“If you are struggling to pay bills as a result of redundancy it’s vitally important to speak to your lenders straight away.

“If you would like free confidential advice on redundancy rights and entitlements get in touch with your local CAB.

“They can also give you a benefits check and provide advice on how to manage any debts you may have.”