Billions of pounds worth of income-related benefits are currently going unclaimed, new research shows.

A new analysis by Policy in Practice found the total amount of unclaimed welfare benefits and support has increased to £22.7billion, up from £19billion last year.

Significantly, the report estimates that over eight million people could be missing out on an average of £2,700 per year in rights-based benefits.

The overall figure of unclaimed support excludes disability benefits and discretionary support, both of which require a further assessment.

However, including these elements would push the true level of unclaimed support to over £30billion

A lack of awareness about certain benefits, as well as the complexity of the claiming process were identified as some of the main barriers preventing people from applying.

Additionally, negative perceptions about claiming benefits discourage eligible people from engaging with the benefit system.

While living costs remain high, with inflation still rising at 3.2 percent, people are being urged to claim support if they’re eligible for it.

Responding to findings, Claire Atchia McMaster, director of income and external affairs at anti-poverty charity Turn2us, said: “At a time when so many people are struggling to afford basic necessities, navigating our benefits system should not be an additional burden.

“Yet, feedback from the Turn2us helpline indicates that accessing benefits is complicated, inaccessible, and emotionally draining.

“This complexity prevents millions from claiming vital support, exacerbating financial insecurity and impacting wellbeing.

“Clear action from the Government is crucial to ensure that this support reaches everyone who needs it.”

Ms McMaster added: “We encourage everyone to complete a regular benefits calculation to ensure you are accessing all available support.

“You can do this on both the Turn2us and Policy in Practice websites. In 2023, 60 percent of users on the Turn2us Benefits Calculator identified new benefits they were eligible for.”

People can click here to access the Turn2us and Policy Practice benefit calculators.