The WASPI campaign (Women Against State Pension Inequality) continues to challenge the UK Government over compensation for women affected by changes to the state pension age. The campaign argues that political instability in Westminster may offer new opportunities to gain support for their cause.
Women born in the 1950s were impacted by the gradual increase in the state pension age from 60 to 65, and later to 66. Many claimants discovered the changes too late, leaving retirement plans disrupted. In January 2025, Labour confirmed there would be no compensation for these women, despite the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman finding the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) guilty of maladministration.
Background and Judicial Review
The Ombudsman previously recommended compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 and urged Parliament to address the issue. Labour rejected these recommendations, asserting that most affected women were aware of the changes and earlier notice would not have significantly helped.
In response, WASPI has filed an application for a judicial review, with a court decision expected within two to three months on whether the case will progress to the High Court.
Numerous MPs and political parties, including the Liberal Democrats and Greens, have expressed support for compensation. Campaigners hope recent local election results, where Labour lost over 1,400 seats, may increase momentum for their cause.
Leadership Statements and Campaign Strategy
Angela Madden, chair of WASPI, said:
“Keir Starmer’s Government becomes less popular every day. Andy Burnham joining the Makerfield by-election is interesting because he has publicly supported our cause, though many Labour figures previously voiced support before coming into power.”
Ms. Madden confirmed that WASPI has backing from Labour backbenchers and is actively fundraising to meet legal expenses for the judicial review, aiming for £100,000 and having already secured over £60,000.
The campaign will also be attending union conferences to increase awareness and gather support, including:
| Event | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| GMB Conference | Blackpool | June 2026 |
| Unison Conference | Brighton | June 2026 |
Key Points About the Campaign
- The High Court can overturn the DWP’s ruling but cannot mandate compensation payments.
- WASPI continues to engage political parties and unions to strengthen advocacy efforts.
- Reform UK’s recent local election victories add further uncertainty to the political environment, affecting potential support.
- Despite challenges, WASPI remains optimistic about leveraging political changes to advance their campaign.
FAQs
Q1: Who does WASPI represent?
A: Women born in the 1950s who were affected by increases to the state pension age from 60 to 66, many of whom were not properly informed in advance.
Q2: Has Labour agreed to compensation for WASPI women?
A: No. Labour rejected compensation despite the Parliamentary Ombudsman recommending payments ranging from £1,000 to £2,950.
Q3: What legal action has WASPI taken?
A: The campaign has filed a judicial review challenging the government’s decision, with a decision on progression to the High Court expected within months.
Q4: Can the High Court order compensation?
A: No. The court can overturn the DWP ruling but cannot mandate payments. Compensation would need to be approved separately.
Q5: How is WASPI fundraising for legal costs?
A: WASPI is aiming to raise £100,000 for legal fees and has already secured over £60,000.
