A GROWING number of people sought immigration advice towards the end of 2020, Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) said yesterday.

In November, CAS centres provided 1,237 pieces of advice related to settled status, an increase of 16 per cent on the previous month.

CAS expects demand for immigration advice to rise further next year, with the approach of the June 30 deadline for citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland to apply for settled status.

Those who have not yet applied are being urged to do so as soon as possible.

CAS spokeswoman Gillian Fyfe said: “With so much uncertainty around the issue of Brexit this year and how things may look once the transition period ends in January, it’s understandable for people to feel unsure about their rights.

“Our message to people who haven’t applied is clear – there is still time and the Citizens Advice network is here to help.”