PEOPLE in West Devon are being encouraged to take a free benefit check by West Devon Citizens Advice Bureau, to ensure they are receiving the entitlements they deserve.

According to a new study by equity release provider Just Retirement Solutions, 18% of pensioners who have never claimed state benefits or entitlements are eligible for pension credit and council tax benefit, and one in four of people who already claim could be eligible for more help.

Jane Wimberley, home visiting officer for West Devon CAB, said: 'We are fortunate in West Devon to be able to offer a home visiting service to those people unable to reach our bureau and provide a free benefit check.

'We find that many of our older clients are reluctant to claim their entitlements, due to pride and the thought of filling out the quite off-putting forms.

'This is where we can help, and if we find you are not entitled to anything at this time, you haven't lost anything by asking.'

West Devon CAB's home visiting and outreach service is funded until 2014 by the Big Lottery Fund.

Project development officer Mandy Kenyon said: 'With so many frontline services being reduced, and so many people suffering due to the price rises in fuel and food, claiming entitlements now with help from the CAB is vital.

'We want to make sure that everyone is claiming the maximum that they are entitled to before the winter comes round again.'

To find out how to maximise income through entitlement to benefits or pension credits, contact West Devon CAB's home visiting service on 01837 52105 for a free, confidential benefit check.