Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has commended the success of his Department's Make the Call Wraparound Service, which secured more than £63 million in unclaimed benefits for people who accessed the service in the last financial year.

The Make the Call initiative is designed to help individuals access various benefits, support, and services to which they are entitled but have not yet been claiming.

Speaking during a visit to the service's office in Knockbreda, Belfast, Minister Lyons said: "These results highlight the vital role our Make the Call service plays in ensuring that welfare support reaches those who need it most. This service helps people access the financial assistance they are entitled to, but may not have been claiming, making sure the right money gets to the right people at the right time."

The Minister highlighted the impact of the service amid ongoing financial pressures: "With cost-of-living pressures continuing to affect families and individuals across our society, Make the Call has delivered over £63 million in additional support, leaving those who have benefitted on average more than £100 a week better off." He expressed particular satisfaction regarding support for older people, stating: "I am particularly pleased that this includes £7.9 million in Pension Credit and £16 million in Attendance Allowance for older people, as Pension Credit can unlock a range of other vital supports that are a lifeline for our older generations."

Since its inception in 2005, the Make the Call service has generated almost £534 million in additional benefits for people throughout Northern Ireland, including many who are vulnerable due to age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances.

In addition to financial benefits, the service directs people to a variety of other supports, such as:

• Blue badges for car parking or free bus passes.

• Access to local groups to promote community connections and social independence.

• Help with health costs.

• Home safety checks.

• Assistance with reducing energy costs.

Make the Call collaborates with a range of partner organisations, including the NI Housing Executive, Housing Rights, Dementia NI, and Carers NI.

Minister Lyons strongly encouraged the public to utilise the service: "I strongly encourage anyone who thinks they may be entitled to benefits to use this free and confidential service. Our goal is to ensure every penny of available support goes to those who need it most."

To 'Make the Call', you can phone 0800 232 1271 or text ADVICE to 079 8440 5248.