THE Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) has guaranteed support for mobilised reservists and their employers in the North West and Isle of Man in the wake of the Iraq crisis.

The RFCA has confirmed it will provide help and information to any of the 1,500 reservists in the North West who receive call-up papers.

The association has also pledged to help their employers.

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Sawers, Deputy Chief Executive of the Liverpool based NW RFCA, said: "While the majority of reservists of all three services will know that they should contact their units for advice, it is possible that many employers will be unsure of their rights and responsibilities under the Reserve Forces Act of 1996.

"Under the provisions of the Act, employers are entitled to compensation and it is important that they receive it."

The RFCA will also be able to advise on the steps that can be taken to defer or gain exemption from call-up, and the rights of employers and employees on re-employment after demobilisation.

Employer Support Executive Ian Rankine said: "While no decision has been taken to commit UK forces to military action against Iraq, compulsory mobilisation is considered as part of normal, prudent contingency planning."

Individual reservists and employers who have queries or concerns can contact Ian Rankine at the North West RFCA on 0151 727 4552 or 07889 805748, or email nwsabre@aol.com.