City of York Council's Benefits Advice team will be visiting residents of the council's sheltered housing accommodation over the next few weeks in a bid to increase benefit take up amongst older people.

Advisers will complete claim forms and offer help and support on applying for or increasing the amount of Pension Credit, Housing and Council Tax Benefit and health related benefits to which residents are entitled are entitled.

Many older people miss out on health related benefits as they wrongly presume they are not available if they have savings or occupational pensions. Others miss out as their family or partner cares for them, or because they live alone and do not want anyone to provide care for them. Even those who have been turned down before, or been told by a friend, relative or health professional that they do not qualify can speak to one of our advisers about a new application.

Mike Coda, the council's Welfare Advice and Appeals manager, said: "As many as two out of every five of York's older people are not getting the financial support which they are entitled to. In particular many older people do not realise that there is extra help available if they have a long term health problem that affects their day to day activities. They are missing out and we want to help them get the support they deserve."

Anyone wanting further information on the visits, or who would like advice on how to claim benefits should call 01904 551111.