Waspi Women Take Bold Stand: Legal Action Looms Over Pension Payout Denials

Campaigners are taking a stand against the government for denying compensation to millions of women affected by the rising state pension age. The group Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) is pushing for financial help for 3.6 million women born in the 1950s. They argue that these women weren’t adequately informed about changes made back in the 1990s.

The government has acknowledged that the changes were not communicated swiftly enough. However, they stated that it’s not feasible to create a £10.5 billion compensation fund, as it would burden the taxpayer.

Waspi chair Angela Madden expressed her frustration, saying, “This is not just unfair; it’s legally wrong.” The group has sent a formal letter to the government, allowing time for a response before they may take legal action in the High Court in two weeks.

Last year, a parliamentary ombudsman suggested compensating these women up to £2,950 each for the 28-month delay in informing them about the pension changes. Waspi claims many have faced financial struggles and had to alter their retirement plans due to this lack of information.

In December, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall apologized for the delayed communication but argued that many women were already aware of the changes by 2006. She contended that earlier notification wouldn’t have significantly impacted their retirement decisions.

Madden countered, stating, “We won’t let the government dismiss our concerns.” She highlighted the contradiction in the government’s acknowledgment that these women were victims of poor administration while denying any injustice.

With no compensation offered thus far, Waspi has turned to crowdfunding to cover an estimated £75,000 in legal fees. If they win their case, the potential cost to the government could reach £10.5 billion, a heavy sum amid ongoing economic challenges.

The pension changes began in 1995 under a Conservative government aiming for equality in pension age. Following the 2010 financial crisis, a coalition government expedited these changes to lower state pension costs. While similar changes have occurred in other countries, the UK government’s slow communication raises concerns that could now be pursued in court.

A government spokesperson reiterated their acceptance of the ombudsman’s findings but maintained that the majority of affected women were aware of the changes, arguing that earlier letters would not have made a difference. The situation continues to develop as campaigners prepare for potential legal action.

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