The government’s refusal to compensate women affected by poorly communicated changes to the state pension age has sparked outrage, with many feeling let down and betrayed. Activists from the Waspi (Women Against State Pension Inequality) campaign shared their frustrations during a session with the Work and Pensions Committee in the House of Commons, describing the impact of maladministration on their lives.
Background
The issue stems from changes to the state pension age, which increased the retirement age for women born in the 1950s from 60 to 66. While the changes aimed to equalize retirement ages between men and women, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) found that the government failed to adequately inform women about these changes.
A previous report by the Ombudsman suggested that compensation between £1,000 and £2,950 would be appropriate for those affected. However, in December 2024, the government rejected the idea of a blanket compensation scheme, citing the potential cost of £10.5 billion to taxpayers as unjustifiable.
Impact
Debbie de Spon, Communications Director for the Waspi campaign, described the deep sense of betrayal felt by the women. She stated, “They feel angry, upset, and impoverished by how they have been treated.”
Angela Madden, Chairwoman of Waspi, highlighted the struggles women faced due to the lack of notice:
- Retirement Plans Disrupted: Many women planned to retire at 60 but were blindsided by the changes, leaving them financially unprepared.
- Challenges Rejoining the Workforce: Women in their late 50s or early 60s faced significant barriers when trying to re-enter the workforce, including age discrimination.
- Poverty and Adjustments: Some women were forced to house-share with strangers—a situation reminiscent of student life but unthinkable for retirees.
Ms. Madden added, “We were expecting compensation for the stress, anxiety, and adjustments we had to make, but the Ombudsman’s recommendation of a maximum £3,000 feels like a slap in the face.”
Government’s Response
While the government acknowledged maladministration and issued an apology for delays in informing women, it maintained that most women were aware of the changes. Citing research from 2006, officials claimed that 90% of women born in the 1950s knew about the increase in the state pension age.
This reasoning has been criticized. Karl Banister, Deputy Ombudsman of the PHSO, noted that the government’s reliance on the 90% awareness statistic was not ideal, as surveys show varying levels of knowledge. He emphasized the need for a more straightforward acceptance of maladministration without undermining the findings.
Compensation Debate
The Waspi campaign and their supporters argue that compensation is not only about the financial losses but also about acknowledging the stress, anxiety, and injustice caused by poor communication.
Ms. Madden suggested that while immediate compensation might be difficult for the government, the door should remain open for future redress when finances allow.
What Happens Next?
The government has expressed willingness to work with the Ombudsman to address the issue, but campaigners remain skeptical. For the Waspi women, this fight is about more than just money—it’s about fairness, dignity, and recognition of the challenges they’ve faced.
The outcome of these discussions will not only affect the lives of the women involved but also set a precedent for how the government handles maladministration in the future.
SOURCE – LINK
FAQs
What is the Waspi campaign?
The Waspi campaign fights for women affected by state pension age changes.
Why did the pension age change?
To equalize retirement ages for men and women.
What compensation was recommended?
The Ombudsman suggested £1,000 to £2,950 for affected women.
Why did the government reject compensation?
They cited the £10.5 billion cost as unjustifiable.
What challenges do Waspi women face?
Disrupted retirement plans, poverty, and age discrimination.
