MORE than £86,000 of unclaimed benefits have been identified and handed out as part of a partnership between Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, the Benefits Agency and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

In the last two weeks alone, over £15,000 was handed out to people in Crewe and Nantwich who were previously unaware that they could have claimed.

This figure was identified by staff operating a Freephone advice line for the public to use to find out if they were missing out.

It has been added to the grand total obtained by past promotions held at markets and supermarkets in the borough.

Corporate Services Chairman Steve Roberts said: "These initiatives are not only helping so many people to receive all the help they are entitled to, but they are providing additional resources that will be available to the local economy.

"We will not rest on our laurels and will continue to find new ways to make people aware of the help that may be available.

"If anyone feels they may be missing out on extra help, I would urge them to contact us."

The council's customer service section at Delamere House, Crewe, can be contacted on 537189. Alternatively, call the Benefits Agency on 538000, or the CABs at Crewe on 212401, or Nantwich on 625565.

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