A FREE taster event is being held in Poundbury to mark the launch of a new benefits advice service for local retirees.

The event is being held by McCarthy and Stone at its Bowes Lyon Court assisted living development near Queen Mother Square.

The session will be led by the organisation's entitlements adviser, who offers a confidential, free service to help older people access the entitlements available to them.

McCarthy and Stone says that nationally the retired population fails to claim more than £5billion in entitlements they are eligible for.

Its advice service has helped home owners claim more than £5million in benefits elsewhere and it hopes the new Dorset scheme will assist local residents.

The entitlements advice service involves a full benefits check including state pension, pension credit, attendance allowance, disability, council tax, health, winter fuel, TV licence and warm home discount scheme.

The taster event this Friday will run from 2pm to 4pm.

Entitlements adviser Colin Cuthbert said: "At McCarthy and Stone we aim to ensure that our homeowners and prospective homeowners have access to all the support and assistance they need to live comfortably and enjoy their retirement.

"We would advise retirees of all ages to visit us at our Bowes Lyon Court development and receive all the information about what they are entitled to – it really can make all the difference."

Retirees will also be able to take a tour of the new 62-home Poundbury development on the day and check out its facilities, including the restaurant.

Jan Skeemer, Estates Manager at Bowes Lyon Court, said: "The event will be a great way for local retirees and their families to see with their own eyes just what a bright future could be waiting for them here.

"They’ll be able to meet and chat with homeowners who have already made the development their home, explore the many local amenities on the doorstep, and enjoy a canapé or two at the same time."

For further information about Bowes Lyon Court, the benefits entitlements service or to book your place at the event call 0800 310 0383 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk