Thousands of pensioners in Northern Ireland could lose out on millions of pounds when changes to the benefits system take effect this year.

From October the backdating of pension credit payments will be cut from one year to just three months - a move which Help the Aged has warned could leave thousands of older people struggling financially.

Pension credits are extra payments for older people which guarantees a minimum income.

The charity has said as many as 86,000 older people are entitled to pension credit but are still not receiving it. This means that up to £168m in housing benefit, carers allowance or disability allowance is denied to some of the most vulnerable in society.

Help the Aged in Northern Ireland has urged pensioners to call its free advice line, SeniorLine, for a free benefits check.

Sinead Campbell, from the charity said: "As of October this year, we will only be able to claim three months of back-dated monies for any Pension Credit entitlements we identify.

"These changes will have a knock-on effect to claims for Housing Benefit, Rate Rebate and Carers Premiums which are normally back-dated by the same period as Pension Credit.

"Since April last year SeniorLine has identified and claimed £1m of benefits on behalf of older people, money they did not know they were entitled to.

"There is still £168m of benefits not being claimed. This is money that can make a big difference to some of our most vulnerable older people and we are strongly urging older people, or their carers, to call us, free, today on 0808 808 7575. Any unclaimed benefits we identify before October will still be able to be back- dated 12 months."

For further information or a benefit check, freephone Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm 0808 808 7575.

The Pension Credit was introduced in 2003 and replaced the Minimum Income Guarantee. It is designed to help pensioners on low incomes who have some savings.

It is paid to millions of households, but many pensioners in need are failing to claim. The credit currently ensures a minimum income of £119.05 a week for a single pensioner and £181.70 for couples.