Women born between 1950 and 1960—known as WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality)—experienced a swift rise in State Pension Age (SPA) from 60 to 65, resulting in financial strain.
The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman confirmed that the DWP failed to properly notify affected women, calling it maladministration, and recommended individual payouts between £1,000–£2,950.
However, the government has refused to implement a blanket compensation scheme. As of mid-2025, WASPI supporters continue to pursue legal action to obtain justice.
2. What the Ombudsman Found
| Issue | Finding |
|---|---|
| Delay in letters (2005–07) | DWP failed to promptly notify 1950s-born women of SPA increases. |
| Maladministration | Ombudsman concluded that miscommunication caused injustice. |
| Financial loss not quantified | They found injustice, not necessarily direct financial loss. |
| Compensation suggested | Recommended payments up to £2,950 per affected individual. |
| Government response | Accepted maladministration but rejected compensation, calling it “unfair”. |
3. Government Refusal & Reasoning
- The ruling Labour government (via Liz Kendall and Keir Starmer) has rejected compensation, citing affordability concerns—estimated cost: £3.5–£10.5 billion—and noting that 90% of women were aware of SPA changes by 2006.
- The government asserts that most affected women had access to information and that widespread compensation lacks value for taxpayers.
4. Legal Challenges: What Happens Next
- In February 2025, WASPI launched a judicial review challenging the DWP’s refusal to offer compensation.
- Lawyers from Bindmans have filed the case and are awaiting High Court permission to proceed to a full hearing. A ruling is expected in the next few months.
- Meanwhile, scam alerts have been issued: many fake websites promise compensation and request personal details—WASPI advises not to engage.
5. Public & Political Reaction
- WASPI organizers, backed by MPs across parties, strongly criticize the government’s refusal.
- Some financial commentators express sympathy but doubt the legal route will force compensation, as no legal obligation currently exists.
- Observers warn that ignoring an ombudsman’s ruling sets a concerning precedent about government accountability.
6. What WASPI Women Should Do Now
- Stay alert to fraud: No official compensation scheme exists — do not share personal data.
- Track the High Court decision: A judge’s approval to proceed would be a significant milestone.
- Keep in touch with WASPI and legal advisors: Email updates or follow official campaign channels.
- Engage your MP: With cross-party backing, MPs can pressure the government or introduce alternative options.
7. FAQs
1. Has the government agreed to compensate WASPI women?
No—they’ve acknowledged maladministration but rejected compensation, citing cost and fairness concerns.
2. How much compensation was recommended?
The Ombudsman suggested £1,000–£2,950 per eligible woman, depending on individual circumstances.
3. Is there any legal path forward?
Yes, a judicial review has been filed asking the High Court to overturn the government’s decision. It’s under review as of mid-2025.
4. What risks are there from fraudsters?
Scams offering fake compensation are on the rise—never enter personal or financial info on unverified sites.
5. Can MPs force compensation if the judicial review fails?
Potentially—Parliament may pass new legislation or continue to pressure the government on public interest grounds.
8. Final Thoughts
The WASPI compensation battle remains at a critical juncture. While the government continues to reject payouts citing fiscal constraints and knowledge of SPA changes, women affected are fighting back legally.
This high-profile case highlights problems with pension fairness and administrative accountability. Whether compensation is ultimately awarded depends on the success of the judicial challenge and ongoing political pressure. Stay tuned as the High Court and lawmakers weigh in.