WASPI fights back for 1950s-born Woman: The Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaigners are preparing for a legal battle against the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), challenging the government’s refusal to compensate women affected by state pension age changes.
Campaign chair Angela Madden has warned that the judicial review could take up to 14 months to be decided by a high court judge. The group is seeking to overturn the government’s decision and secure financial compensation for thousands of 1950s-born women who were impacted by the state pension age increase from 60 to 66.
Why Are WASPI Women Taking Legal Action?
The WASPI campaign argues that:
- The government failed to properly inform women about the pension age changes.
- Many women were left financially unprepared due to poor communication from the DWP.
- The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) found maladministration in how the changes were communicated.
- The PHSO recommended compensation of up to £2,950 per affected woman.
However, the government rejected the idea of compensation, claiming that:
- Most women were aware of the changes well in advance.
- By 2006, 90% of 1950s-born women reportedly knew the pension age was increasing.
- A £10.5 billion compensation scheme would be an unjustifiable cost to taxpayers.
Judicial Review Process: What Happens Next?
The WASPI campaign is now filing a judicial review to contest the government’s decision. Angela Madden explained the process:
- Filing the legal papers – The campaign has nearly completed this step.
- Waiting for permission to proceed – A high court judge will review the case and decide whether it can go forward.
- Court date allocation – If approved, the case will go to trial, which could take up to 14 months.
The campaign previously won a judicial review against the PHSO for its narrow findings, leading to this new legal challenge.
Public Support and Fundraising Efforts
To fund the legal battle, the WASPI campaign launched a fundraising initiative, which has already:
- Raised over £148,000
- Surpassed its initial £75,000 goal within one day
- Set a new target of £180,000
The legal team is also seeking a costs capping order to limit potential legal expenses.
Angela Madden expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, saying:
“It shows there’s a huge amount of support.”
DWP’s Response to the WASPI Challenge
The DWP was contacted by WASPI and given a March 10 deadline to respond. The government’s legal team sent a last-minute reply, but its contents have not been made public.
A government spokesperson stated:
- They accept the Ombudsman’s finding of maladministration and have apologised for a 28-month delay in notifying affected women.
- However, compensation is not justified, as most women were aware of the changes.
The government also refused to comment further, citing “live litigation.”
What Happens Next?
- The judicial review will be filed soon and reviewed by a high court judge.
- If approved, a court case will take place, potentially lasting up to 14 months.
- WASPI will continue fundraising to cover legal costs.
- The government will defend its decision not to provide compensation.
The WASPI legal challenge could be a landmark case for 1950s-born women affected by pension age changes. While the government acknowledges errors, it refuses to provide compensation, arguing that most women were already aware of the changes.
With strong public support and a growing legal fund, WASPI is determined to fight for justice. If successful, this case could set a precedent for pension-related compensation claims in the UK.
For updates, visit the WASPI campaign website or follow legal proceedings through the UK High Court.
FAQ’s
What is the WASPI campaign about?
The Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign represents 1950s-born women who claim they were not properly informed about the state pension age rising from 60 to 66.
Why is WASPI taking legal action against the UK government?
WASPI is challenging the government’s refusal to compensate affected women, despite an Ombudsman finding ‘maladministration’ in how the changes were communicated.
How much compensation is WASPI seeking?
The Ombudsman recommended up to £2,950 in compensation per affected woman, but the government has rejected a compensation scheme.
How long will the WASPI judicial review take?
The legal process could take up to 14 months, as the case will be reviewed by a high court judge before proceeding to trial.
How can I support the WASPI campaign?
WASPI is fundraising to cover legal costs. You can donate to their campaign, follow updates, and contact your MP to raise awareness.
My friend was born in 1958 and had a career with Inland Revenue, and she feels she was tricked with the government pension which she should have had when she was 60. All the government does is take money off the people and look after the rich. They are the ones who make decisions which are putting fear in public people without a proper debate. Free speech is being quieting down too. Monthly payments are destroying the countries market. Government, stop taking money off the things that make the country strong and pick on someone your own size… Richer people who have enough to give away already and give the public people who have nothing, alone.