MORE than 31,000 pensioners in Swindon are scheduled to get the Government's annual special payment of £200 to help towards winter fuel bills.

But Age Concern's Swindon director Jo Osorio believes some people may not be aware they are eligible and is urging everybody in the 60-plus age group to check whether they are entitled to receive the welcome winter warmer.

He believes payments of many thousands of pounds which mounted up during previous winters have still to be claimed.

"The Government has extended winter fuel payments to most men and women aged 60 and over," he said. "This applies even to men who are not yet entitled to draw their pension and may still be working."

The allowance is paid automatically to everybody aged 60 or over registered as being in receipt of social security benefit in the qualifying week, September 16 to 22, and living in their own home.

Others in that age group who did not get the payment in previous years will need to make a claim.

"This is not charity. It is an entitlement," said Mr Osorio. "Paying the money this way is the most efficient way to get it to those who need it."

He said the payment is vitally important to many Swindon pensioners who, without it, would struggle to provide themselves with adequate warmth.

"Some people who are still working might say they don't need it. If so perhaps they would like to send it to us.

"We could spend it on the work we do throughout the winter in giving people benefits advice and helping them to get what they are entitled to."

According to Mr Osorio the national figure for unclaimed benefits is now around £1.5 billion a year. "In Swindon there is at least £1 million not being claimed by people over 75," he said.

He points out that countless elderly people could also save money on their winter fuel bills by switching to a different supplier.

"For instance Age Concern has its own energy service commercially by arrangement with Powergen."

The state special winter payment can get an explanatory booklet by ringing 0845 601 1562.

Age Concern's Swindon office is at 14 Milton Road, (01793) 692166. Information about benefits is also available from the Parks Advice Centre, the Millen Advice Point, the Citizens Advice Bureau.