OLDER readers may be interested to know that from last Monday, April 12, the basic income support for a single pensioner wasl increased from £70.45 to £75, and for couples from £109.35 to £116.60, and more pensioners will be entitled to it. Rates are now higher for disabled pensioners or those aged 75 and over.

This means that pensioners already getting income support will get an increase over and above the rate of inflation. Even more pensioners will be entitled to claim income support because, for the first time, their income will be less than income support levels.

Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen knows that up to 700,000 pensioners nationally fail to claim the income support they are entitled to, often because they don't realise they are eligible or they think the small amount involved is not worth it.

Even a claim for a small amount can mean additional help with housing and council tax costs and help with dentistry and glasses.

Age Concern Blackburn with Darwen would like to inform as many older people as possible about the income support they are entitled to. Older people who think they may be entitled under the new rules should contact us on Blackburn 664242 or Darwen 773440, or visit one of our offices at 4, King Street, Blackburn, or 11, Union Street, Darwen.

VICKY SHEPHERD, Information Services Manager, Age Concern, Blackburn with Darwen, King Street, Blackburn.

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