Extra £522k benefits claimed

The scheme has benefited 171 local people to the tune of an extra £522,000 during 2013/14.

The programme saw more than 4,000 people, many of them older people, gain £14.2 million in new and additional benefits.

Since 2005, benefit uptake work has generated over £81million in additional income in Northern Ireland.

Minister for Social Development Mervyn Storey said: “I am committed to promoting the uptake of benefits in an effort to tackle poverty and improve lives for those most vulnerable.

“This extra money means more income for grocery shopping and help towards fuel bills for keeping homes warm in winter. This is additional money that is making a difference to people throughout Northern Ireland, including 171 in the Newtownabbey area.

“I urge people in all circumstances to ‘Make the Call’, including older people and those caring for them, to find out if they are entitled to any additional benefits.”

The number to ring is 0800 232 1271 or got to www.nidirect.gov.uk/unclaimed-benefits

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