A CAMPAIGN is being launched to alert County Durham carers to a new benefit entitlement.

From Monday, carers aged 65 and over can claim invalid care allowance.

Durham Welfare Rights, part of Durham County Council's social services department, is running a take-up campaign to encourage local people to take advantage of the extra benefit.

It has produced an information leaflet explaining the new rules, including that care must be undertaken for 35 hours per week, and involve a disabled person receiving attendance allowance or disability living allowance at the higher or middle rate. Carers in receipt of income support or minimum income guarantee could receive an extra £24.80 a week.

Chris Graham, senior officer for Durham County Council's welfare rights team, said: "It is important that carers get advice before making a claim because it could end up in the disabled person they are caring for losing their benefit.

"But the bottom line is that carers aged over 65 and living in County Durham are now entitled to extra cash.

"My advice to anyone who isn't sure whether they qualify is to check with us. We will be able to give them all the help and information they need."

Anyone wanting further advice and a copy of the leaflet should ring one of the county's welfare rights offices. For Durham and Chester-le-Street, on 0191-383 6081; Easington, on 0191-518 6000; Derwentside, on (01207) 291 535; Sedgefield, on (01388) 424 200; or Wear Valley/Teesdale, on (01388) 744 430.

Leaflets are also available by writing to Durham Welfare Rights Team, Community Support Unit, Moor Chambers, 26 Front Street, Framwellgate Moor, Durham, DH1 5EJ, or logging on to www.durham.gov.uk and clicking on 'benefits'