If you have followed today’s news headlines, you will have seen renewed focus on the ongoing fight being undertaken by the WASPI Women for justice. The issue has once again moved into the spotlight as pressure continues to build on the government to honour the commitments made to women affected by changes to the state pension age. As we move through the new year, CWU Capital believes it is important to restate our support and highlight how trade union voices can still help influence the outcome of this long-running campaign.
Many members welcomed the 2024 General Election result, particularly following clear commitments made to support the WASPI Women. However, despite those assurances, that support has yet to be fully delivered.
WASPI represents women born in the 1950s who were impacted by changes to the state pension age. While equalisation itself was not opposed, many women were not properly informed, leaving them with little or no time to prepare for retirement. This resulted in financial hardship for thousands who had planned their futures around an earlier pension age.
For CWU Capital members, particularly those now retired or approaching retirement, the WASPI campaign highlights the wider importance of transparency and fairness in how major policy changes are communicated. Pension decisions affect long term financial security, life planning and wellbeing, yet many women impacted by state pension age changes were given little warning or meaningful support. This case has become a defining example of why trade unions continue to campaign for clear communication, proper consultation and accountability when governments introduce reforms that affect working people and pensioners alike. By supporting WASPI women, CWU Capital is reinforcing its long standing commitment to protecting members’ interests beyond the workplace and into retirement.
In 2024, the Parliamentary Ombudsman upheld the WASPI case and recommended compensation of between £1,000 and £2,900 per claimant. Although the findings were accepted, the government initially rejected compensation altogether. In November last year, it was announced that this decision would be reviewed again, with a further report expected within three months. That deadline is now approaching rapidly.
This creates a crucial moment for pressure and engagement. Retired members can check whether their MP has pledged support for WASPI women and, if not, use a simple email template to urge them to back the original commitment.
This campaign is about fairness, accountability and justice, values that sit firmly at the heart of the trade union movement. To show your support click here.