WASPI campaigners are calling on the public to back their legal challenge against Labour’s decision to deny compensation to millions of women born in the 1950s who were not properly informed of age changes.
The group, which has long fought for recognition of the hardship caused by the Department for Work and Pensions’ () maladministration, has launched a crowdfunding appeal to fund a judicial review.
With just 26 days left to reach their £180,000 stretch target, they have already secured over £115,000 from more than 6,600 pledges.
The dispute stems from government changes that raised the age for women from 60 to 66, which, WASPI argues, were poorly communicated.
Many affected women claim they were left unaware of the changes until it was too late to adjust their financial and retirement plans, resulting in significant hardship.
Many affected women claim they were left unaware of the changes until it was too late (Image: Getty)
In March 2024, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) ruled that the ‘s failure to properly notify women of these changes amounted to maladministration.
The Ombudsman also recommended compensation for the affected women. However, Labour rejected the recommendation, arguing that no injustice had been suffered and that no payments were necessary amid concerns the total cost to the taxpayer could top £10.5 billion.
WASPI strongly disputes this decision and is now pursuing legal action to challenge the Government’s refusal to compensate the millions of women affected.
The campaigners believe the Government’s reasoning is legally flawed and, if successful, their judicial review could force ministers to reconsider the decision.
WASPI acknowledges that a successful judicial review would not automatically guarantee compensation. However, it would invalidate the Government’s current position, requiring them to reconsider and make a new, legally sound decision on whether the women should receive financial redress.
A victory in court would also strengthen the authority of the Ombudsman’s findings, confirming that the ’s maladministration caused injustice to millions of women.
The campaigners are urging supporters to contribute to their legal fund, highlighting that without financial backing, the case cannot proceed.
“We will not allow the Government’s decision to go unchallenged,” a WASPI spokesperson said.
“With your help, WASPI will fight on by asking the High Court to make the Ombudsman system work properly by forcing the Government to make a lawful decision.”
Funds raised will cover legal fees for the same high-profile legal team that previously won a judicial review against the Ombudsman’s findings, as well as potential costs should the Government seek to recover expenses in case of a loss.
WASPI encourages donations from affected women, their families, and the wider public who believe in holding the Government accountable. The campaigners stress that even small contributions can make a significant difference in their fight for justice.
Supporters can pledge funds via the WASPI CrowdJustice page, with donations set to be collected within the next 24 to 48 hours. The campaigners also urge the public to share the appeal widely to ensure the issue remains in the public eye.
With millions of women still seeking justice for the abrupt and poorly communicated pension age changes, WASPI remains determined to push forward, ensuring that their voices are heard and that accountability is upheld.
For more information or to donate, visit the WASPI campaign’s official fundraising page .