MPs meet with County Durham pre pensioners

MPs from the Commons Work and Pensions Committee came to County Durham on Monday 2 February to meet with a group of pre pensioners as part of the DWP's inquiry into the State Pension age.

Nineteen people aged over 50, some not yet of State Pension age, met with Committee members in a session organised by Age UK County Durham. Participants spoke openly about the financial pressures they face after leaving work due to health issues or caring commitments, and their struggle to get by without a pension.

Debbie Abrahams, Chair of the Work and Pensions Committee, said: "We heard today from people in their 50s and 60s, some of whom have been forced to retire ahead of State Pension age due to the issues they face, such as caring responsibilities or health conditions.

"That people approaching State Pension age face particular issues, such as increased hardship, is something we came across in a previous inquiry, which is why we decided to look specifically at this problem."

Attendees described being pushed into debt or relying on dwindling savings and insecure work to survive. Many said they felt too proud to seek help, while others criticised the lack of clear, accessible information about their options.

Robyn Holmes, CEO of Age UK County Durham, said: "This has been an excellent opportunity for people aged over 50 who live and work in County Durham to be heard on many issues that potentially have a huge impact on their well-being. We've heard some real concerns about income gaps, particularly from those who care for others, and those with long-term health issues. We've heard very clearly about the need for quality, local advice, for information and support on these issues."

Gender differences also came to light: women often faced lower retirement incomes due to gaps in their National Insurance record from time taken out to care for family, while men who had spent years in manual work were likely to have fewer healthy years in retirement.

Participants also raised issues with Job Centre support and the loss of Carer's Allowance when they claim the State Pension.

Suggested solutions included better access to free financial advice, simpler communications about retirement, and practical help for those with limited digital skills.

Tackling ageism in the workplace was also flagged as a priority.

One attendee, Steve, said: "I've been looking forward to actually have a say to MPs to maybe make a tiny little bit of difference to other people's lives. We talked mainly about our experiences. We all had things to say and it was absolutely brilliant. I think the event was great and I am chuffed to have had the experience and the chance to do this."

Age UK County Durham runs a support programme for people aged 50 to 69, offering guidance on financial planning, health, and preparing for retirement.

The risk of poverty is high: nearly one in four people over 60 live below the poverty line, and when the State Pension age last rose to 66, poverty rates among GS-year-olds doubled.