Nowadays, there is talk on social media and news about WASPI women getting £3,150 compensation.
If you or someone you know is wondering if this is true and if they can get this money, then this article is for you. Here we will explain the whole issue in easy and understandable language – who will get the compensation, why it has been demanded, what is the government’s response, and what you can do next.
Who are WASPI and What is Their Issue?
WASPI stands for Women Against State Pension Inequality, that is, women who stood up against the inequality of state pension. These women are mostly born in the 1950s, who were earlier told that they would be entitled to pension at the age of 60. But suddenly the rules were changed and the pension age was increased to 66 years without giving them timely information.
Just imagine, you worked hard your whole life, and planned your retirement thinking that you will get rest at the age of 60. And then suddenly you are told that now you have to wait for 6 more years! This is what happened with these WASPI women.
Why Was Compensation Demanded?
These women say that the government suddenly increased their pension age without giving them complete information. Neither did they get the letter on time, nor any clear government information. As a result, many women left their jobs before time, took retirement or are now living without income.
Thousands of women complained about this to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO).
PHSO is an independent body that investigates the mistakes of government departments. They found that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had not provided timely information to these women — and described this as “maladministration”.
What Did the PHSO Recommend?
The PHSO acknowledged that the government’s mistake had caused mental, financial and social hardship to the women. So they recommended that these women should be compensated.
They suggested a slab system, which included:
- £1,000 for mild hardship
- Up to £2,950 for moderate hardship
- And in some cases up to £3,150
They clearly stated that each woman should receive compensation based on her loss.
What Was the Government’s Response?
In December 2024, Liz Kendall, then Minister for Work and Pensions, announced on behalf of the UK Government that the government would not be providing any compensation.
The government said:
- “Most women were aware of the changes.”
- There was ample time for the pension age to increase.
- Determining the losses of every woman would be difficult and costly.
This angered the women involved in the WASPI movement and their supporters.
They say that if a government institution like PHSO has admitted negligence, then compensation is warranted.
Who Would Be Eligible If Compensation Was Given?
If the government approved compensation, the following women would be eligible:
- Those born between 6 April 1950 and 5 April 1960
- Those who were not informed about the change in time
- Those whose lives, jobs or retirement plans were severely affected
- Those who faced financial hardship, compulsion to re-start their jobs or mental stress
An Example:
Janet (from Manchester) left her job at 59, thinking she would receive a pension at 60. But she found out she would receive it at 66. She now has to work in demanding jobs like cleaning offices because she can’t find another job due to her age. This has affected her financial and mental health.
What to Do Now? If There’s No Compensation, What’s the Way?
Although the government has decided not to provide compensation, that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything. You still have several options:
1. Contact Your MP
Write or email your local Member of Parliament. Tell them how this issue has affected you. Many MPs are supporting WASPI women and raising this issue in Parliament.
2. Join Campaign Groups
WASPI Campaign 2018, BackTo60 and many other organisations are working on this issue. Joining them can not only help you stay informed, but also help you feel united and get legal advice and emotional support.
3. Keep an Eye on Legal Updates
Stay tuned to the PHSO website and reputable news channels like the BBC and The Guardian. If politics changes, the government may raise the issue again.
4. Get Financial Advice
If your pension has been delayed, it’s important to understand your financial situation and make a plan. Organisations like Citizens Advice, MoneyHelper or Age UK offer free advice.
5. Find Alternative Help
If you can’t get compensation, you may be eligible for other government benefits, such as:
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Information and application processes are available on the GOV.UK website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will WASPI women really get the £3,150 compensation?
No, at the moment the government has made it clear that no compensation will be given. However, the PHSO did recommend it.
Q2: How do I know if I am a WASPI woman?
If you were born between 6 April 1950 and 5 April 1960 and your pension age has not been properly listed, you may be eligible to pay the £3,150 compensation.
If your salary was not increased, you are considered a WASPI woman.
Q3: Can the government reverse this decision in the future?
There is a possibility. If the government changes or the policy changes in the future due to political and social pressure, this issue may be reconsidered.
Q4: Can I get any other financial support?
Yes, if you have a low income or are in financial difficulties, you can apply for schemes like Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.
Conclusion
The fight of WASPI women is not just for compensation, but it is a larger fight for social justice and government transparency. The government may not be giving compensation right now, but the movement continues.
If you or someone you know is affected, don’t sit quiet — raise your voice, get support and stay informed.
