ACROSS the country, Age Concern is helping older people put an extra £50 million in their pockets with Age Concern Wirral contributing £500,000 to this figure in 1999.

And with the launch of the charity's Your Rights Week on Friday, Age Concern Wirral hopes to help even more older people claim money to which they are entitled.

Up to £1 billion is going unclaimed in means tested benefits such as income support, housing benefit and council tax benefit. In addition, there are many more people who may be missing out on non-means tested benefits like attendance allowance.

In some cases, a benefit check could even mean that an older person is able to double their income.

The message of Your Rights 2001 to older people and their relatives is clear check your benefit entitlement now.

Between April 6 and 12, Age Concern Wirral will have trained staff and volunteers on hand to offer information at

-Friday, April 6: Birkenhead town centre (by Woolworth's)

-Monday, April 9: Heswall fire station

-Tuesday, April 10: Moreton Cross

-Wednesday, April 11: Upton fire station

-Thursday, April 12: Liscard Village.

Alternatively, the Information, Advice and Advocacy department can be contacted on weekdays between 10am and 3pm on 666-2220.

Annette Roberts, senior manager at Age Concern Wirral, says: "Older people really do need to make sure they are getting the money they are entitled to.

"Many may not be aware that the benefits exist or may be uncertain about filling in the forms. That is where Age Concern Wirral can help we can give relevant information along with practical assistance."

As part of the week long activities, the 29th edition of the invaluable handbook 'Your Rights - a Guide to Money Benefits for Older people' will be published.

Written by Age Concern's own income expert Sally West and priced at £4.50, it is available from Age Concern Wirral, W H Smith and selected bookshops.