A CAMPAIGN is being launched to ensure carers in Lancashire do not lose out on benefits they are entitled to claim.

Lancashire's welfare rights service has organised the initiative which starts on Wednesday, November 6.

According to the latest estimates there are around 74,000 carers in the county.

Councillor Frank McKenna, chairman of Lancashire's welfare rights and anti-poverty sub-committee, said: "A recent survey shows that two thirds of carers do not receive any benefits.

"It is very important that every carer knows what they are entitled to and what benefits they maybe able to claim. That is why we are running this campaign." A special leaflet, produced to coincide with the campaign, is available from libraries, advice centres and welfare rights offices.

It can also be obtained by writing to the Welfare Rights Service, Freepost, Preston PR1 8BR.

Coun McKenna added: "Our leaflet gives information to help carers through the complications of the benefit system.

"It is designed to tell people what they can claim and where to get further advice and help if they need it."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.