PENSIONERS in Dumbarton and the Vale are missing out on almost £8 million of a benefit they are entitled to, a new report suggests.

Non-profit organisation independent age released the new statistics, which show 2,873 people across West Dunbartonshire are not receiving pension credit, when they are entitled to do so.

This means a total of £7.76 million has bee left unclaimed, remaining in government hands.

On average, the amount paid out to West Dunbartonshire residents is also the second highest in Scotland, at £52.53 per week.

The benefit is designed to supplement the income of stricken pensioners, with one part of the payout topping up the weekly income of the elderly if it falls below £167.25 for single people, or 255.25 for couples.

A second part of the initiative gives extra cash to those who had saved money towards their retirement.

Across Scotland, around £330 million was left unclaimed, forming part of the £3.5 billion which has not been taken up across the UK.

Not claiming pension credit can also lead to the elderly missing out on associated benefits, such as the cold weather payment, housing benefit or a council tax reduction.

West Dunbartonshire MP Martin Docherty-Hughes has looked to raise awareness of the problem.

He told the Reporter:"Two in five pensioners across Clydebank, Dumbarton and the Vale are missing out on this vital financial support at a time when poverty amongst older people is on the rise.

“It’s shocking that over £7.7m is being lost each year to pensioners in West Dunbartonshire and shows a clear failure by the UK government to engage with the older generation and help them claim what they’re entitled to."

The MP has also joined forces with charity Age Scotland, who are leading a campaign to get as many people as possible to take up the benefit.

He said: “Our pensioners deserve a decent standard of living in retirement. I'd encourage anyone who thinks they might be entitled to Pension Credit, or has an elderly family member who may be affected, to call the free Age Scotland helpline for a benefit check."

For all the latest from Dumbarton and the Vale, click here.

Age Scotland chief executive Brian Sloan said: "We're delighted that Martin Docherty-Hughes MP is supporting our campaign. It's unacceptable that so many pensioners in West Dunbartonshire are spending their later years worrying about how to pay the next bill.

"Many people don't claim Pension Credit because they're not aware of it, find the process confusing, or feel too proud to accept help. But this is money they have earned and claiming it doesn't have to be difficult or complicated.

"Last year Age Scotland's Helpline helped callers claim almost £600,000 in benefits, making a huge difference to their everyday lives. If you or someone you know might be missing out, you can call free on 0800 12 44 222.”