FFS simply won't work on macbook pro with M2 chip

[noeljacobs]

I have been using FFS for years and last year bought a macbook pro with an M2 chip. Initially my fairly basic back ups to external hard drives worked perfectly but over the last few months I've encountered nothing but problems with the app simply freezing up. Ive tried removing the app-restarting the laptop and reinstalling the latest version. Sometimes it will work for one back up and then simply lock up. Clicking on any function button simply elicits a dull clunk noise. Other times it will not allow any function such as browse / compare etc and requires a Force Quit. The current OS is is Sonoma 14.1.2. but it was also happening on Ventura.

Any help to resolve the issue would be appreciated but bear in mind I'm not technically astute in regard to how computers work and would like to continue to use FFS but at this stage its just too frustrating.
Thanks

NJ