Keep active and busy. Try not to withdraw socially. Friends and family can be a great source of support. Sport is also a good way of beating stress.

Try to avoid too many negative thoughts on how you were made redundant and think instead about the future and finding a new job. Focus on your experience/achievements. You are likely to feel angry and hurt in the first few days after you are made redundant, but remember that redundancy is not usually a reflection of your ability, but due to external factors such as company restructuring or economic necessity.

Check your employment contract to see what redundancy pay you should get.

Sign on and ensure you receive all the benefits you are entitled to.

Budget carefully and see if you can pay for larger bills by direct debit or installments to spread the load.

Join local and business clubs, including job clubs if you have been out of work for over 6 months.

Look into training courses at local colleges/universities to keep your skills up to date. Some will be provided free if you are unemployed.

Consider signing up for contract or temporary work or, if you have a lot of experience in your field, consider setting up as a trainer.

Keep your eyes peeled for any potential vacancies in related industries. Use all your contacts and social networking. Get out and about and meet people. Remember the majority of jobs are not advertised.

Think about how being made redundant could open up new opportunities, such as starting up your own business.