Meeting called as crusade begins for pension ‘justice’ for former tech firm employees in Ayrshire

A meeting has been called as a crusade begins for pension ‘justice’ for former tech firm employees in Ayrshire. Patricia Kennedy, from Coylton, has been leading the charge against Hewlett Packard Enterprise to demand increased discretionary pension contributions. Kennedy, a member of the Hewlett Packard Pension Association (UK), along with others in the group, claim they have faced hardships due to changes in their pension plans over the past two decades. They argue that their pensions have been significantly reduced from pre-1997 contributions, as current legislation only index-links contributions from 1997 onwards.

The focus of the campaign directly affects former employees of UK Digital Equipment Corporation in Ayrshire, who were employed at the plant in Mosshill Industrial Estate, Ayr, between 1977 and 2002 until it was taken over by Hewlett Packard. After a series of mergers involving Digital Equipment, Compaq, and Hewlett Packard, Hewlett Packard Enterprise assumed responsibility for the Digital pension scheme in 2017. Campaigners estimate that around 1500 individuals in the region could be facing drastically reduced pensions.

A meeting is scheduled for Saturday, November 23, at Prestwick Community Centre in Caerlaverock Road, for those interested in joining the crusade for pension justice. Patricia Kennedy invited former Digital employees in Ayrshire to attend, stating that the meeting will provide information on the Pension Justice Campaign for Pre-97 pensioners from Digital/Compaq/HPE and serve as an opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues and friends. While refreshments will not be provided, organisers are hopeful to have a coffee van on-site. To register interest in attending, individuals are encouraged to email Patricia at PatriciaKennedy1@mac.com. The meeting is set to run from 10am to 12noon.

This campaign led by Patricia Kennedy highlights the importance of fighting for fair treatment of employees when it comes to their pension contributions. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by workers in ensuring their financial security post-retirement. It also sheds light on the power of collective action in advocating for justice and equity in the workplace.