New DWP update on State Pension age compensation plan in response to WASPI petition

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided an update in response to an online petition submitted by the Women Against State Pension Inequality campaign (WASPI) regarding a compensation scheme for those affected by changes to their State Pension age. The petition, signed by over 132,000 individuals, urges the UK Government to fairly compensate women born in the 1950s and implement a compensation scheme by March 21, 2025.

While the DWP’s written response on December 10 did not specify a timeline for addressing the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman’s recommendations or announcing a compensation scheme, it stated that the Government is reviewing the report and will outline its approach after careful consideration.

The petition calls for redress for women impacted by State Pension age increases and communication failures by the DWP. The Ombudsman’s report in March 2024 highlighted maladministration by the DWP towards 1950s-born women. The DWP clarified that changes to the State Pension age were implemented progressively over several Acts, with considerations based on life expectancy and public consultations.

The DWP emphasized that the PHSO’s report focused on DWP communication practices rather than changes to the State Pension age. The Government is engaging with the report, parliamentary discussions, and representatives from groups like WASPI Ltd to address the issue.

By surpassing 100,000 signatures, the petition qualifies for consideration by the Petitions Committee for a debate in Parliament. The DWP’s commitment to ensuring pensioners receive their deserved support and maintaining the integrity of the State Pension system was reiterated.

In conclusion, the DWP’s response to the WASPI petition underscores the ongoing dialogue between the Government and advocacy groups regarding State Pension age adjustments and communication shortcomings. The call for fair compensation continues to resonate with affected individuals, prompting further discussions and potential policy changes in the future.