The WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) campaign is now standing at a turning point. A decision from the High Court could soon determine whether millions of women born in the 1950s will receive financial compensation of up to £2,950 each. At the heart of this legal battle is the question of how fairly and effectively the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) informed women of changes to their state pension age.
For many, the issue goes far beyond money. The campaign is also about fairness, acknowledgement of mishandled policy communication, and demanding accountability from a system that failed to provide timely notice. If the courts support the campaign’s cost-capping request, it could pave the way for a legal case that has the potential to reshape retirement justice in the UK.
How the WASPI Fight for Pension Justice Began
The WASPI movement started when thousands of women discovered—far too late—that their state pension age had been raised. Though the intention behind equalising retirement age was not questioned, the method of communication was. Many only received notice shortly before they turned 60, giving them little time to adjust their financial plans.
This shortfall left many struggling—forced to delay retirement, deplete savings, or take on debt. Led by campaigners like Angela Madden, the movement gained widespread support, including recognition from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), who confirmed in 2021 that the DWP was guilty of maladministration. However, the PHSO stopped short of demanding direct compensation, leaving the door open for further legal action.
Legal Challenge Hinges on Cost-Capping Decision
At this stage, the WASPI campaign’s ability to continue depends heavily on whether the High Court approves a request to cap legal costs. This would protect the group from being held responsible for potentially huge fees if the case doesn’t succeed. The campaign, funded through public donations, argues that this safeguard is essential if ordinary people are to stand a fair chance against government institutions.
Angela Madden has spoken openly about how the government’s refusal to agree to capped costs is seen as a tactic to wear them down. The court is expected to give a decision on this within weeks—a decision that will likely determine the future of the legal challenge.
With limitless legal funds at their disposal the DWP refused a costs capping request. WASPI must defend themselves. Please support the Crowdjustice fund today! https://t.co/cLEws3zROp pic.twitter.com/E1tcrObNMM
— #WASPI Campaign (@WASPI_Campaign) June 16, 2025
DWP Holds Firm Despite Ombudsman Findings
Despite acknowledging delays in communication—up to 28 months in some cases—the DWP continues to reject calls for compensation. It maintains that it does not agree with how the Ombudsman has assessed the matter or the suggestion that payments are due.
In a public statement, the department reiterated its refusal to comment on ongoing litigation but made clear it would not be following the Ombudsman’s recommendations for financial redress. This has only deepened the divide between the campaigners and the government.
Crowdfunding Powers the Fight for Justice
To keep their case alive, WASPI turned to public fundraising. Through the legal platform CrowdJustice, they’ve set a goal of £230,000 to cover legal expenses during the next phase. As of now, the campaign hasn’t hit its target, but contributions are still coming in.
The group says this funding is vital—not just for paying lawyers but as a sign of public solidarity. They’ve urged supporters to continue spreading the word to ensure this legal battle doesn’t end simply due to a lack of resources.
What Compensation Could Look Like
If WASPI wins its case, eligible women could each receive up to £2,950. With around 3.8 million women affected, the government’s total bill could climb past £11 billion. While this figure is based on prior estimates, no final decision has been made yet.
The campaign argues that the issue is about more than just money—it’s also about restoring trust and making sure such failings don’t happen again in the future.
What Comes Next in the WASPI Legal Battle
Several crucial developments lie ahead. First is the High Court’s decision on cost-capping. If it’s approved, the case moves forward with less financial risk. If not, the campaign might have to pause or withdraw altogether. Further appeals and public pressure could still keep the issue alive, especially with a new government in place.
The next few weeks will reveal whether WASPI can carry on its fight for recognition and redress—or whether legal and financial barriers will force it to a halt. Either way, the campaign has already made one thing clear: real people suffer when policy changes are mishandled, and they won’t stay silent about it.
