Tynemouth MP Alan Campbell has started a campaign to ensure local people aged 65 or over are missing out to benefits they are entitled to.

Alan said “I am always keen to see that people get the help they need when they need it so I was disappointed to read then that more than 2,000 local people aged 65 or over are missing out to benefits they are entitled to.

In our country today 2 million people aged 65 or over are living in poverty. Pension Credit is designed to lift them out of poverty, but 4 in 10 do not receive it.

It’s estimated that 2,248 older people in our area are missing out, and they’re missing out on a massive £4,898,000 every year.”

Anyone who thinks they are missing out can ring the Independent Age helpline on 0800 319 6789. Or they can contact Pension Credit claim line directly on 0800 99 1234.