The Department for Work and Pensions is facing a fresh legal challenge from WASPI campaigners, who are demanding compensation for millions of women affected by changes to the state pension age. A new CrowdJustice petition has been launched to fund a judicial review, seeking a lawful decision on the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman's findings of injustice.
WASPI Women's Legal Action
On Wednesday, May 13, WASPI women launched the crowdfunder, criticising the new Secretary of State, Pat McFadden, for denying compensation. They stated: 'On 29 January 2026, 1950s-born women were told by the new Secretary of State that hardly any of us have suffered injustice despite years of DWP delay in sending us letters to tell us about changes in our state pension ages and that none of us will be compensated despite the Ombudsman forcefully proposing that should happen.'
The campaigners described Mr McFadden as 'a different DJ playing the same broken record' and insisted that the injustices remain real. They are demanding another judicial review to compel the Government to accept the Ombudsman's findings and compensate victims.
Background of the Dispute
The long-running wrangle stems from a 2024 Ombudsman report that recommended the DWP and government compensate women affected by the accelerated rise in the state pension age. The PHSO proposed payouts of around £3,000 each. The total number of women affected is estimated at over 3.5 million, including all women born in the 1950s.
The DWP has defended itself by citing a 2006 survey that it claims showed 90% of women in the relevant age group knew about the planned changes. It also argues that the Ombudsman did not properly account for evidence on the ineffectiveness of unsolicited letters.
Campaigners' Response
WASPI women argue that the Government is wrong and should take responsibility for maladministration. They stated: 'Regardless of whether we are ultimately compensated, it is hugely important that injustice is acknowledged and we are not blamed for not having found out our state pension age.' The campaigners have launched a new judicial review claim in court, seeking a just resolution.
