A CHARITY is trying to encourage more elderly people to claim all the benefits they are entitled to.

Age Concern, on Canvey, has launched a More Money in your Pocket campaign to help pensioners who are missing out on a share of up to £4.6billion which is left unclaimed every year.

A similar campaign last year helped many local people to claim benefits.

The campaign will focus on a different area every two months, starting with council tax benefit and housing benefit in April and May.

Dot Axford, chairman of the group, said: "Recent rises in fuel, food, water and council tax bills are putting a real strain on pensioners.

"But despite many older people finding it hard to make ends meet, millions are missing out on benefits money which is rightfully theirs.

"This is either because they don't know that they are entitled to, are worried about the complexity of the process or are embarrassed about claiming.

"However, Age Concern Canvey offers free and confidential expert support and advice, which can help make claiming simple."

It is estimated up to 45 per cent of elderly people are missing out on benefits in this country every year.

Many are unaware putting in a successful claim could reduce your council tax bill by an average of £624 a year.

Age Concern Canvey has benefits advisors who can be contacted by calling ree on 0800 009966.