During last year's power strike the authorities urged old people and others to use all the electricity or gas necessary to keep a reasonable temperature. They claimed it was an emergency. They promised to pay the extra when the bills came.

FOR MILLIONS OF PEOPLE IN BRITAIN EVERY WINTER IS AN EMERGENCY.

If you are claiming a supplementary pension, supplementary benefit or sickness benefit you are entitled to claim an extra heating allowance. This will be an amount equal to your extra fuel needs and will be added each week to your allowance.

To claim this, fill in the form below and send it to your SS office. If your claim is refused ask for an appeal form. You have the right to challenge any decision the Social Security make - and you will probably win.

You can also claim in the same way for extra money for clothes, bedding, furniture, household equipment, removal expenses, redecorations etc. You are also entitled to a 'long-term addition' to your weekly money to cover extra expenses if you are claiming over a long period. ARE YOU GETTING THEM?

The Claimants Union is a collective of unemployed people, the sick and disabled, unsupported mothers and old people who have banded together to fight for a better deal and to change the system. Claimants Unions are run entirely by claimants and welcome any help.

The addresses of Claimants Unions are on the Graffiti page.

Name ........................................................

Address .....................................................

I claim an extra heating allowance to meet increased fuel costs during the winter.

Signed .......................................................

Send this form to your local social security office.