MORE than £1.7m in unclaimed benefits have reached the hands of rightful claimants following the success of a scheme.

Launched eighteen months ago, DarloMillions aims to let local people know that around £26m of unclaimed benefit is waiting to be claimed by local people including the elderly, disabled and young working families.

DarloMillions is a partnership between Darlington Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) and Darlington Borough Council.

Talking about the success Helen Howson, Chief Executive Officer at Darlington CAB, said: “The success so far has been incredible with many local people receiving cash in their pocket that they didn’t realise they were entitled to.

"Amounts have ranged from £10,100 awarded to someone who appealed an ESA decision to around £25 a week extra - all very welcome when budgets are tight.

"Over 1200 people have enquired through the CAB helpline or at our offices and our outreach worker has been incredibly busy meeting people in the community and in their own home where necessary.”

Councillor Heather Scott, Leader of Darlington Borough Council, added:

“This is wonderful news, however, there is still work to be done. Whilst almost £2m has been claimed, we know that there is a further £24m of benefits from central government funds left unclaimed in this town. This is a huge amount and I am passionate that this money goes to the right people.

“Claiming benefits is nothing to be ashamed of, they are there to give people the helping hand they need to cope with everyday life. If they haven’t already, I would urge everyone, working or not, to try our online Benefits Calculator to see if they are owed anything. It takes five minutes and could help change a life.”

The DarloMillions online Benefit calculator is available at www.onedarlington.org.uk Anyone who thinks they might be owed benefits can also call Darlington CAB on 01325 266888, email darlomillions@darlingtoncab.co.uk. People can also call into their office at The Core, Church Row, Darlington DL1 5QD.