SOME pensioners could boost their income by hundreds of pounds a year if they claimed everything they were entitled to, according to Age Concern.

The charity hopes a five-day campaign, called Your Rights Week, will make sure older people do not miss out on increased social security benefits coming into force on Monday.

Last year in County Durham, Age Concern helped 4,500 senior citizens claim £1.5m in benefits and helped 20,000 people with information and advice.

Elderly people could save up to £425 a year on Council Tax.

In addition, they could miss out on benefits such as pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Attendance Allowance.

The charity said that with the right advice, pensioners could double their income.

It said some were put off by the complexity of the system, while others feared there was a stigma attached to claiming.

The charity's advice and information service is running free, impartial and confidential sessions from Monday, April 19.

They are from 10am to noon on April 21, at West Close, Shildon; April 22, at Cumbria Lodge, Bishop Auckland; and April 23 at the Signpost centre, The Royal Corner, Crook.

Appointments are not necessary, but people needing benefit checks should take details of their income, savings and National Insurance number. Alternatively, call 0191-386 3856.

* John Gordon gives benefits advice every Saturday in The Northern Echo.