Guernsey's pensions could rise by 拢5 a week

Guernsey's pensioners could be better off next year if States members agree the benefit and contributions rates for 2011.

A single pensioner on the full rate would pocket an extra 拢5.04 per week under the Social Security plans.

If the States approve, pensions and other contributory benefits will rise by 2.9%.

The plans also include increases to a number of benefits including the winter fuel allowance and family allowance.

The winter fuel allowance, which was not increased last winter, could increase by 8.7% to 拢24.67 a week from October through to April next year.

Prescription charges could rise 10p to 拢3 per item from January and family allowances by 40p to 拢15 per child per week.

Supplementary benefits may rise by the rate of inflation except for 16 and 17 year olds, which would drop from 拢79.31 to 拢65.03 per week in a move to encourage them to either continue in education or find work.

The plans also include a new long-term care benefit for people in residential homes who are assessed as elderly mentally infirm.

The proposals are due to go before the States at the end of September.