Thousands of people are at risk of missing out on their state pension when they need it most, new data reveals. Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that men and women are now expected to enjoy “good” health for less than 61 years of their lives.
The planned rise in the state pension age—to 67 by 2028 and 68 by 2046—raises concerns about people having to work longer despite declining health. Sir Steve Webb, former Liberal Democrat pensions minister and consultant at LCP, warns this increase could widen what he calls a “chasm of ill health” as individuals face extended periods of poor health before receiving their pension.
“Fiscal pressures are causing governments worldwide to raise pension ages,” Sir Steve explains. “But this risks forcing many people to endure years of poor health without adequate benefit support, which is much less generous than what pensioners receive.”
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He urges caution: “The government must carefully consider any further changes to pension age to avoid pushing vulnerable people into poverty during the critical years before their pension starts.”
Stuart McDonald, also of LCP, describes the ONS findings as a “wake-up call.” He notes, “Healthy life expectancy has sharply declined and is now at its lowest since records began in 2011-13. The rising cost of ill health demands greater investment in preventative measures to keep people healthier for longer—benefitting individuals, the NHS, taxpayers, and the economy alike.”
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson responded, emphasizing their commitment to supporting citizens across all ages. “Those below state pension age have access to a range of support, including Universal Credit and disability-related benefits. We’re also addressing cost-of-living challenges through measures such as raising the national minimum wage, reducing energy bills by £150, and launching a new £1 billion Crisis and Resilience Fund to help those in urgent need.”