Arabic version: زيادة سن المعاش الحكومي إلى 67 بدءًا من هذا الأسبوع
The state pension age is starting to rise to 67, impacting millions from Monday. This change marks the first increase from the current age of 66, which will be phased in over the next two years. Those born between 6 April and 5 May 1960 will be the first affected, facing an additional month of waiting before they can claim their pension. According to BBC News, the adjustment aims to align pension eligibility with increased life expectancy, as younger generations may work into their 70s.
Peter Bradbury, from Preston, expressed frustration about the change, stating he had expected to receive his pension at 65. He noted that while the delay may not significantly impact his daily expenses, it affects his plans for travel and leisure. Younger individuals, like Laura Williams from Netherley, anticipate that the pension age will continue to rise, raising concerns about their quality of life when they eventually retire.
The increase from 66 to 67 is projected to save the Treasury about £10 billion a year by 2030. The state pension amounts will also rise by 4.8% in accordance with the triple lock policy, with the new flat-rate state pension reaching £241.30 per week, and the old basic state pension rising to £184.90 per week.
Charities have warned that the pension age increase will disproportionately affect those in poorer health and lower-income areas. Research indicates that men in Wokingham, Berkshire, can expect to be in good health until nearly 70, while those in less prosperous regions face much shorter healthy life expectancies. Experts suggest that future increases in the pension age should be paired with targeted financial support for the most affected groups.
The government has also indicated that a review is underway to evaluate the potential for further increases in the state pension age, currently legislated to rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046. However, concerns have been raised regarding the rationale behind these increases, especially in light of declining life expectancy post-pandemic. A spokesman for the Department for Work and Pensions emphasized its commitment to providing financial support for individuals at any age who require assistance.
