Hilary Simpson is tired of being asked how she feels about the government’s failure to inform her about changes to the state pension age and its refusal to compensate those affected. “It’s abundantly clear how we’re all feeling,” she says. “This is now a serious, constitutional issue.”
Women Blindsided by Pension Age Increases
Simpson, like many women born in the 1950s, took early retirement expecting to receive her state pension at age 60. It was only after leaving her job that she discovered legislation passed in 1995 meant she wouldn’t get her pension until 63. Then in 2011, the changes were accelerated, stretching her retirement savings even thinner.
There was no excuse for either my employers or the DWP not having told me. I worked next door to the HR department. I’d never moved house – the government had all my details.
Hilary Simpson
Calls for Compensation Rejected
Now, despite an Ombudsman ruling that those affected should receive compensation of up to £3,000 each, the government has refused. Women’s groups argue this decision is not only unjust, but unconstitutional.
Abiding by the ombudsman’s decision is the check and balance of a democratic society. Ignoring it is the start of a slippery slope.
Judith Robertson
Loyalty to Labour Questioned
The controversial move has some lifelong Labour supporters reconsidering their party allegiance. Elizabeth Stanley, a Labour councillor, says while she remains committed to the party, “this isn’t right.”
The argument that it’s a wrong use of taxpayers’ money is bizarre: all us WASPI women are taxpayers. It’s like we’re invisible.
Elizabeth Stanley
Pension Changes Compound Financial Struggles
For many affected women, the pension debacle is just one of several financial blows. Christine not only had to work an extra two years before claiming her pension, but also lost her winter fuel allowance. After her husband passed away, her income has been halved.
The government seem to be in some sort of strange bubble: are we the ‘broadest shoulders’ which they said would pay their fair share?
Christine, affected by pension changes and benefit cuts
Broken Promises by Labour Leaders
Some are calling out Labour leaders like Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves, Angela Rayner and Liz Kendall, who all backed the WASPI women’s campaign while in opposition. “Blaming the previous government for this about-turn is disingenuous,” argues Jacqueline.
Yes, there’s a black hole in government finances but there are now huge numbers of vulnerable people whose lives will be much worse in this first winter of a Labour government than before it. That’s not the kind, caring party we voted for.
The Fight for Justice Continues
While some defend the government’s stance given limited funds, affected women argue this is about more than just compensation. For them, it cuts to the heart of what a democracy should stand for – a government that listens to its people and independent authorities. As their battle continues, only one thing seems certain – they will not stay silent.
