A CHARITY helped older people claim £1.1 million in welfare benefits in just one year.

Age UK Barrow and District is offering an Information and Advice Service to make older people in the area aware of the help that they can receive.

A spokesman for Age UK Barrow and District said: “We are underway with outreach programs within local doctors’ surgeries and community hubs in the area.

“This is to ensure that older people are aware of any entitlements they may have regarding welfare benefits for anyone over the age of 65, Blue Badge applications, energy advice and also information regarding all services and activities that Age UK Barrow and District offer within the community!”

In the last financial year alone, Age UK Barrow and District’s Information and Advice Service has successfully brought £1.1 million in welfare benefits awards to older people within the area.

They have helped more than 1,000 people within that same financial year.

Many have found the advice service to be helpful.

One service user said: “The Claims questionnaire was quite daunting so I turned to Age UK Barrow for help. Marie Connor took charge and she was so good and helpful, without Marie’s help I would have struggled and I was successful in my claim. Age UK put my mind at rest and can’t thank them enough.”

Another said: “Very happy with the service provided by Marie Connor and the team at Age UK Barrow-in-Furness. Marie was very knowledgeable with a friendly manner and extremely helpful in filling out forms etc. Which resulted in a successful claim for Attendance Allowance and Blue Badge. I am very grateful for all her help and advice”.

As well as offering advice, Age UK Barrow and District runs a number of social and activity groups within the community.

Activities include walking, bowling, walking football and netball, card making, dominos and much more.

Barrow advice sessions are currently being held every Monday at the Age UK Charity shop from 10am-12pm and every Tuesday at the Alfred Barrow Health Centre from 10am–1pm.

The Information and Advice department can also be called on 01229 831425.