RESIDENTS needing advice on which benefits they can claim are invited to take advantage of a free session.

The ‘It’s Your Right to Claim’ campaign was launched earlier this year and has already identified £760,000 in benefits going unclaimed buy Middlesbrough residents.

Advisers have found people missing out on a range of support including Employment & Support Allowance, disability-related benefits, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and access to free childcare.

The six-month initiative is being led by the town’s Financial Inclusion Group (FIG) with support from Middlesbrough Council’s Public Health service at venues across the town to help people claim the benefits to which they are entitled.

A spokesman for the FIG said: “It’s Your Right to Claim is about explaining benefits and making sure people know what they are entitled to.

“The story that too often goes untold about welfare is of the billions of pounds that go unclaimed every year by those who would be assisted by it.

“The Financial Inclusion Group feels that at a time when a lot of people are struggling financially, it is important that they claim all of the benefits to which they are entitled.

“The benefits system can be complicated, and the aim of the campaign is to help people through it effectively.”

The latest sessions take place in the Southlands Centre off Ormesby Road, tomorrow (Tuesday, April 14) between10am - 4pm

and Wednesday between 10am - 2pm.

Experts will be on hand to talk individuals through their circumstances and what they are entitled to claim.

Members of the public can pop in at any of the sessions or to make an appointment for a specific time. To make an appointment or for more information call 01642-802303 or email entitledto@middlesbroughcab.org.uk