The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that a state pension rule introduced in 1971 remains in force, meaning pensioners aged 80 and over receive an additional 25 pence per week on top of their state pension. The age addition has never been uprated since its introduction, despite ongoing criticism, and a new petition is urging the government to review and increase the payment to reflect modern economic conditions.
Age addition unchanged since 1971
The age addition was first introduced in 1971 in recognition of “the special claims of very elderly people who on the whole need help rather than others,” according to the DWP. However, successive governments, both Conservative and Labour, have argued that greater priority should be given to protecting the level of basic benefits or targeting additional resources at older pensioners through other means.
The government confirmed over a decade ago that it planned to reform the state pension, introducing a single-tier state pension for future pensioners from April 2016. The single-tier pension does not include an age addition. However, people already over State Pension age when the reforms were introduced continue to receive their state pension in line with existing rules, meaning the 25p addition still applies to those who reached State Pension age before April 2016.
Petition highlights financial inadequacy
A petition launched by David King calls for the government to address the issue. King states: “I have several friends who have crossed the threshold into their 80s, and as I approach that milestone myself, the inadequacy of the 25p a week pension increase for those over 80 has become glaringly apparent.”
“This supplement, which has remained unchanged since 1971, offers no meaningful financial support in today’s economic climate. This petition seeks to address this outdated policy that grossly underestimates the financial realities faced by our elderly population,” he adds.
When the 25p increase was introduced over five decades ago, it may have represented a small but tangible boost. However, with inflation and the rising cost of living over the years, 25p today offers virtually no benefit to pensioners who are already grappling with limited resources. In fact, 25p now is worth less in real terms than it was in 1971, an era when the average price of a loaf of bread was around 10p.
Nearly 3.3 million over-80s affected
In the UK, nearly 3.3 million people are over the age of 80, and they deserve better, according to the petition. Age UK figures cited in the petition indicate that around 1 in 6 older people are living in poverty, and the proportion living with financial insecurity is likely to increase as costs continue to rise. Pensioners often face high costs for healthcare and support, increased heating bills, and many other expenses. For them, an additional income boost is not just helpful—it is essential.
The petition calls on the UK government to review and potentially increase this payment to reflect present-day economic conditions, ensuring that it provides meaningful financial support for older citizens. By reassessing this policy, the government can demonstrate a real commitment to the welfare of the elderly, showing that their contributions to society over a lifetime are valued and respected.
The UK has one of the largest economies in the world, and the petition argues it is time for policies to align with its economic stature. Re-evaluating the 25p increase for pensioners over 80 is not just about adapting to inflation—it’s about recognising the dignity and worth of the elderly population.
The petition urges supporters to sign to support the elderly and ensure they receive the respect and financial assistance they rightfully deserve.
