A GROUND-BREAKING scheme trialled in Kent to help pensioners get tax benefits and council tax discounts has gone nationwide.

Kent County Council, together with Medway and all 12 district councils, launched the scheme last year.

A 26-page form traditionally used by pensioners to get help with council tax was cut down to just three.

Since the launch in March 2004, more than £2,440,000 has been claimed by Kent pensioners - the average amount per person is £700. Now the Department for Work and Pensions says it plans to extend the scheme across the country.

KCC finance cabinet member Cllr Nick Chard (Con) said: “This is an excellent step forward in making sure people get back the money they are entitled to. This is not a handout or freebie. It is a right and it is now even easier for everyone to access.”

For more information please log onto www.kent.gov.uk or call the Kent Benefit Partnership on 0845 345 0310.