A campaign to help pensioners identify unclaimed benefits has uncovered £58,000 in unclaimed Pension Credit in Denbighshire.

Denbighshire County Council has been running the initiative for several months, encouraging older residents to check if they are missing out on Pension Credit.

Citizens Advice Denbighshire is supporting them to claim the benefits they are entitled to.

The campaign has identified £215,000 in unclaimed benefits, with other benefits including Attendance Allowance, Council Tax Reduction, and Housing Benefit also being identified as a result of full benefits checks.

The council's efforts come as new rules were announced on July 29, stating that Winter Fuel Payments will now only be provided to individuals receiving State Pension Credit.

During Pension Credit Week of Action, from September 2 to 6, the council is urging more residents to check if they qualify for the benefit, which is worth an average of £3,900 a year.

The benefit also opens up access to additional support, including Winter Fuel Payments, Council Tax, healthcare, and a free TV licence for those aged 75 or over.

It's estimated that around 80,000 pensioners across Wales are entitled to Pension Credit but are not claiming it.

Liz Thomas, head of finance and audit at Denbighshire County Council, said: "I’m delighted the campaign has already resulted in thousands of pounds of unclaimed benefits being identified to help pensioners in Denbighshire.

"This is welcome news, and I would urge friends and relatives to start a conversation with an older person to find out what financial help may be available.

"Claiming Pension Credit is important because it can provide access to a range of other entitlements."

Pension Credit provides support to older people on low incomes, topping up their income to a minimum of £218.15 a week for single people or £332.95 for couples.

Graham Kendall, chief officer at Citizens Advice Denbighshire, said: "The campaign has been really successful as we’ve been able to directly target those pensioners that may be eligible for Pension Credit by working in partnership with Denbighshire County Council.

"We deal with a lot of residents who are struggling to balance the books due to the cost of living but can be too proud to consider looking into what financial support they may be entitled to.

"We aim to break down barriers and encourage residents to open up and discuss their personal circumstances."

Pensioners who think they may be eligible for Pension Credit are encouraged to contact Citizens Advice Denbighshire for free on 01745 346 775 or via their online form at www.cadenbighshire.co.uk/get-in-touch.