Guernsey's pensions could rise by £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 £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 £24.67 a week from October through to April next year.

Prescription charges could rise 10p to £3 per item from January and family allowances by 40p to £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 £79.31 to £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.