PENSIONERS are missing out on more than £4bn.

And many people in Huddersfield could be among them.

This is according to the charity Age Concern, which wants to help older people claim the cash available.

The charity is behind Your Rights Week, which runs from tomorrow until April 13.

The campaign is to encourage older people to take up the benefits that are rightfully theirs.

Colin Cromack, of Age Concern Kirklees said: "It's appalling that so many older people are struggling to make ends meet while huge amounts of benefits cash are unclaimed."

Mr Cromack says a large part of the problem is that people are unaware of the benefits available.

But others feel they don't know how to claim, that it is too complicated or they feel there is a stigma attached to claiming and would rather make do.

He added: "The claiming process can seem time-consuming and complicated. But it doesn't have to be.

"We have benefits advisers available throughout the year to offer information and practical help to older people across Kirklees."

The charity offers over-50s a benefits check which could significantly improve their income. Pensioners can either drop in or call the free helpline number on 0800 009966.

The unclaimed money is from a variety of schemes.

Benefits available include pension credit, housing benefit, council tax benefit, attendance allowance and disability living allowance.

Unclaimed council tax benefit alone is worth up to £1.1bn.

Pension and benefit rates are to go up from Monday, April 17. The new basic state pension for a single person will be £84.25 per week.

Based on an average example, if the pension credit was taken up this could rise to £114.05.

If the housing and council tax benefits were added, it could be £131.95.

Mr Cromack said he hoped many Huddersfield pensioners would take advantage of the help that Age Concern is offering.

He said: "It's a completely open door policy, so just come along to the office on Cross Church Street.

"There will be people on hand to help and talk through any concerns.

"However, lots of different leaflets will be available to take away if anyone feels uncomfortable talking to us."