Our pension campaign | Age Concern England

End Pensioner Poverty

The publication of the Government's White Paper 'Security in retirement: towards a new pensions system' means that the future should be brighter for future pensioners.

But mind the gaps

The Basic State Pension (BSP) will not be relinked to earnings for 6 years. To prevent it falling further in value above inflation increases in BSP are needed to support current pensioners. The relink could be phased in earlier starting with older pensioners.
The Government intends to continue to link rises in Pension Credit with earnings. This commitment should be included in legislation to make it harder for future governments to change it.
There should be an ongoing campaign to ensure pensioners entitled to means-tested benefits receive them. The system for claiming should be simplified starting with automatic payment of Council Tax Benefit - only claimed by 60% of those entitled.
Changes for women and carers will come too late for many who ave already retired or retiring in the next few years. The Government should look at ways of introducing changes retrospectively.
The Government wants people to work longer. More flexible work is needed in a wider range of jobs. A more generous earnings disregard should be introduced in Pension Credit.

Take Action: Write to your MP

Download the template letter at the bottom of this page and personalise it drawing on your personal experience and including the points which you are most concerned about.

You can find your MP's contact details on the UK parliament website (please note this link will open in a seperate window).