Thousands of hard-up pensioners in Bradford have claimed an extra £12 million between them in State benefits thanks to Council advice workers, new figures have revealed.

The Welfare Rights Team at Bradford Council was set up five years ago this month amid concerns that elderly people were unable - or unwilling - to claim what was rightfully theirs.

The five-strong team found that many proud pensioners preferred to make do on a shoestring rather than claim income support which they felt carried a stigma.

Some pensioners have now doubled their income from about £70 to £150 per week - which has had a huge impact on their standard of living.

One woman was able to make an emotional trip back to Poland, her homeland, after receiving a back-dated payment of several thousand pounds. To others, an extra few pounds a week can be the difference between turning the heating on or enduring the cold.

Nationally, only 63 per cent of pensioners who are entitled to income support actually claim it - many making do on the basic pension of £64.70 a week.

Jane Dale, principal welfare rights officer, said: "People feel shame in claiming the benefits they are entitled to - that's what we're up against. There's still a stigma.

"There are many people in Bradford still living on a lower income than they need to. We are only scratching the surface."

More than 4,000 people - all users of the council's Home Care service - have had advice so far.

Coun Raghvir Virdee, chairman of Bradford's Services to Older People sub-committee, said: "I am delighted the team is delivering such an effective advice service.''

Information on Attendance Allowance, which allows some over-65-year-olds to boost their basic pensions is available on freephone number 0800 882200 or contact Bradford DSS on (01274) 336200.

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