Two-thirds of young voters are in favor of the Government providing compensation to WASPI women, according to recent polling results. The campaign has highlighted strong support among individuals aged 18-34, with 66% believing that over three million women born in the 1950s should receive payouts. Angela Madden, the chair of WASPI, cautioned that ministers are running out of time to deliver justice.
In the coming month, supporters will await a decision from the Government regarding a potential shift in its stance on denying compensation, following the emergence of new evidence. Madden emphasized that these findings demonstrate the younger generation’s grasp of the significance of justice and fairness across different age groups.
A survey conducted by Yonder, involving 2,095 adults, revealed that 53% of 18-34-year-olds feel the Government should hold a debate and vote on the issue of compensation. Additionally, 77% believe that individuals affected by maladministration should be able to seek redress without resorting to legal measures.
Pressure is mounting on the Government to reconsider its refusal to grant compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 to 3.6 million women. WASPI was prepared for a legal confrontation in early December to demand a judicial review, but legal proceedings have been paused pending the outcome of the latest review.
Madden, 71, insisted that only a compensation scheme would be acceptable at this point, emphasizing the critical juncture the campaign has reached. She warned that ignoring the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s recommendations again could lead to widespread national discontent and further legal challenges.
Campaigners have managed to raise over £250,000 to support their legal efforts. Failures within the DWP resulted in inadequate communication regarding the decision to raise the state pension age for women, plunging many into financial hardship due to the inability to plan for the future.
These women faced challenges as their state pension age was raised from 60 to 65 and then to 66. A DWP spokesperson clarified that a decision review will be conducted within three months but cautioned that this does not guarantee a resolution involving financial compensation.