In a powerful move aimed at correcting a historic wrong, the Scottish National Party (SNP) has vowed to deliver £10,000 in compensation to women affected by the state pension age changes—a controversy that has impacted millions of women born in the 1950s. This commitment comes as part of the party’s continued support for the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign, which has long fought for justice over the sudden pension age rise that left many women without adequate notice or support.
As frustration grows over delays, lack of compensation, and government silence, the SNP’s pledge is being hailed as a crucial turning point in the ongoing pension battle.
Who Are the WASPI Women and What Happened?
The WASPI campaign (Women Against State Pension Inequality) was launched in response to government changes that increased the state pension age for women from 60 to 66, with little warning or transitional support.
This shift left many women—particularly those born in the 1950s—suddenly without an expected income during a period of their lives when they had already made retirement plans. Some were forced to return to work, while others were pushed into poverty.
A WASPI spokesperson expressed appreciation for the SNP’s continued support, noting:
“WASPI is pleased with the SNP’s ongoing support and looks forward to continued collaboration with the party in pursuit of justice and compensation for 1950s-born women.”
SNP’s Commitment: £10,000 Compensation Per Woman
The SNP has gone beyond political rhetoric by committing to a £10,000 payout per affected woman. The announcement signals an urgent call for immediate action, especially as a WASPI woman reportedly dies every 13 minutes.
SNP MP Marion Fellows echoed the emotional and moral weight behind this cause:
“After all these years, a £10,000 payment is what these women deserve. I have met with them and I have demonstrated with them. Now I want to see immediate action from the government.”
This compensation would serve both as a financial lifeline and a symbolic acknowledgment of the injustice these women have endured for over a decade.
The Conservative Party’s Stance Sparks Outrage
In stark contrast to the SNP’s firm support, the Conservative Party’s manifesto has come under fire for failing to even mention WASPI women or address the broader state pension age issue.
A WASPI spokesperson commented:
“We are deeply disappointed by the Conservative Party’s manifesto, which fails to recognise the gross injustice caused to the millions of WASPI women.”
Despite prior verbal commitments from leaders such as Boris Johnson, the Conservative Party has yet to present a concrete plan for addressing the fallout from the pension reforms.
This silence has only intensified calls for action, as WASPI representatives insist that time is running out for many of the women affected.
What WASPI Women Are Demanding
Beyond lump-sum compensation, the campaign is also calling for:
- A bridging pension from age 60 to the new pension age (66)
- Full compensation for financial losses already endured
- Clear political commitments from all major parties
- A swift and fair resolution that does not delay justice further
The movement has garnered significant public support, and many voters are now looking to see which parties will truly stand by these women during and after the upcoming general election.
Who Would Benefit from the SNP’s Compensation Plan?
If implemented, the SNP’s proposed £10,000 payment would be directed to:
- Women born between 1950 and 1960
- Those who had expected to retire at 60 but were affected by the state pension age rise to 66
- Individuals who received insufficient notice about the pension reform and suffered financial hardship as a result
The WASPI campaign estimates that millions of women across the UK are eligible for this compensation.
What Happens Next?
Although the SNP’s commitment is a major step forward, the fate of the compensation plan ultimately depends on election outcomes, cross-party negotiations, and public pressure.
Meanwhile, WASPI continues to lobby for broader political support, warning that further delays will only deepen the crisis for aging women left behind by the system.
Until then, campaigners and affected individuals are being urged to:
- Stay informed on pension-related developments
- Engage with local MPs to voice concerns
- Join WASPI advocacy events and rallies for increased visibility
The fight is far from over—but the growing momentum behind this issue may finally bring the recognition and restitution these women deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the WASPI women?
WASPI refers to women born in the 1950s who were affected by changes in the UK state pension age, which was raised from 60 to 66 with little notice.
How much is the SNP offering in compensation?
The SNP has pledged £10,000 in compensation for each woman affected by the pension age changes.
Why is this compensation being offered?
The payment is intended to address the financial losses and emotional hardship caused by abrupt pension policy changes without proper notice or support.
Is this payment confirmed or just a proposal?
It is currently a political commitment from the SNP, not yet a confirmed national policy. Implementation depends on political developments and election outcomes.
What does WASPI want apart from compensation?
WASPI is campaigning for a bridging pension from age 60 to 66, backdated compensation, and an official acknowledgment of the injustice faced by millions of women.
Did the Conservative Party support WASPI?
The Conservative Party’s latest manifesto did not include any mention of WASPI women or commitments related to state pension compensation.
How can affected women check their eligibility?
Women can visit the official WASPI campaign website or contact local advocacy groups for guidance on how to assess their eligibility.
When might the compensation be paid?
If adopted as national policy, compensation could be distributed following the next general election, depending on which party forms the government.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
