UK Keir Starmer told to end pensioner poverty as 2.8 million struggle on low incomes

[CharlieH]

 

A national initiative is urgently required to combat pensioner poverty, as 2.8 million older citizens across the UK lack the financial means to maintain a basic standard of dignified living.

 

Sir Keir Starmer has been informed of the crisis, which has left many elderly individuals reducing their food intake, limiting energy usage, and avoiding social interaction in an effort to manage escalating costs, according to a recent investigation.

 

Despite the severity of the situation, the issue often remains overlooked, in part due to a persistent misconception that older generations enjoy financial security, while younger people face economic hardship. In response, MPs have called for a comprehensive UK-wide strategy to guarantee that all pensioners receive at least a minimum income sufficient for a dignified retirement. They also recommended appointing a dedicated advocate to represent pensioners’ interests and ensure their concerns are reflected in policymaking.

 

These recommendations stem from a report by the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee, chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams. She stated: “After a lifetime of contribution, dignity in retirement is the least that should be expected. Yet far too many are being forced to make compromises that will accelerate physical and mental decline simply because they lack adequate income.”

 

The report highlights that 1.9 million pensioners—approximately one in six—are living in relative poverty, and 2.8 million reside in households falling below the Minimum Income Standard, which defines the level of income necessary for a modest but acceptable standard of living.

 

The committee also raised concerns about the rising state pension age, which reached 66 in 2020 and is scheduled to increase to 67 by 2028. Although intended to reflect increased life expectancy, this change disproportionately affects individuals in disadvantaged areas, where long-term ill health often makes it impossible to remain in employment until the new pension age. Many are therefore forced to depend on disability benefits instead.

 

Additionally, around 700,000 households eligible for Pension Credit are not claiming it, further exacerbating the problem. Independent Age warned that public assumptions about widespread affluence among the elderly obscure the financial struggles faced by those on the lowest incomes.

 

While MPs welcomed the Government’s decision to re-establish the Pensions Commission to examine the rise in pensioner poverty, they stressed that broader action is needed. They urged the Government to implement a cross-departmental strategy focused on promoting equitable health and wellbeing outcomes for the ageing population.

 

In response, a Government spokesperson said: “Supporting pensioners remains a key priority. Thanks to our commitment to the triple lock, millions are set to benefit from an increase of up to £1,900 in their annual state pension by the end of this Parliament.

“We have also launched the largest campaign to date to raise awareness and uptake of Pension Credit, resulting in nearly 60,000 additional households receiving the benefit—on average worth £4,300 per year.

 

“However, we recognise the risk that future pensioners may face greater financial insecurity, which is why we are reactivating the Pension Commission to address the structural challenges that hinder saving for retirement.”

 

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-07-24

 

 

 

 

[Will B Good]

A Dutch single person receives a State pension that is 40% more than a UK single persons State pension.....we are being ripped off.

[a3tsw]

14 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

In response, a Government spokesperson said: “Supporting pensioners remains a key priority. Thanks to our commitment to the triple lock, millions are set to benefit from an increase of up to £1,900 in their annual state pension by the end of this Parliament

The Government spokesperson conveniently fails to mention that the triple lock annual increases are , for a growing number of recipients taxed at 20%.

[billd766]

Of course, this will completely ignore the 6xx,xxx people worldwide who have had their state pensions frozen since they first received it,

[proton]

He can't afford it, he is spending 8 million a day on illegal invaders, have to look after those with no right to be in the country first!

[The Cyclist]

27 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

A national initiative is urgently required to combat pensioner poverty, as 2.8 million older citizens across the UK lack the financial means to maintain a basic standard of dignified living.

 

Sir Keir Starmer has been informed of the crisis, which has left many elderly individuals reducing their food intake, limiting energy usage, and avoiding social interaction in an effort to manage escalating costs, according to a recent investigation.

 

Starmer is in the big seat, but I'm not sure how he is meant to fix it.

 

It was a Ponzi scheme from its date of inception.

 

24 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

A Dutch single person receives a State pension that is 40% more than a UK single persons State pension.....we are being ripped off.

 

Just think how bad it would be, if the Tory / Lib Dem coalition had not introduced the Triple Lock in 2010.

[baansgr]

It's no good comparing UK pensions to other countries..too many variables, UK only need 35 years NI, France needs 44 as do many other countries. UK you get your pension anywhere in the world, and increased in a lot of countries, many others, you need to be living in the country for 2 years, if you leave it is reduced, others you can only stay abroad for 6 months, you then need to return home or it is stopped...UK pension, isn't that bad actually but compared to minimum wage it is abysmal

[baansgr]

16 minutes ago, a3tsw said:

The Government spokesperson conveniently fails to mention that the triple lock annual increases are , for a growing number of recipients taxed at 20%.

So they still receive 80% 👍 

[JonnyF]

Labour's priority is immigrants. They've been perfectly clear about that since they came to power.

 

They don't care about pensioners, farmers, schoolchildren, the disabled. They've screwed the lot to pay for the immigrants.

 

And they do it with a smug, self satisified smile.

 

 

 

[connda]

Keir Starmer told to end pensioner poverty as 2.8 million struggle on low incomes

 

He can't do that by golly.  Illegal aliens, Zelenskyy and a horde of corrupt Ukrainian government officials need - Billions! Moar War Baby!
Screw the whiny elderly peasants.  Let them eat flour.

[Bannoi]

The UK State Pension has two main tiers: the old basic State Pension and the new State Pension. In April 2025, the full new State Pension is £230.25 per week (£11,973 per year) and the full old basic State Pension is £176.45 per week (£9,175.40 per year). The new State Pension is for those reaching state pension age after April 6, 2016, while the old basic State Pension applies to those who reached state pension age before that date. 

 

 It would be a start if the old basic pension was scrapped and everyone got the new basic pension.

 

It wouldnt surprise me if sometime in the future the EU will phase in an EU wide pension scheme and all EU pensioners will recive the same. Not that that would benefit the UK who voted for Brexit.

 

[ElwoodP]

Troll posts and replies removed.

[Purdey]

2 hours ago, Will B Good said:

A Dutch single person receives a State pension that is 40% more than a UK single persons State pension.....we are being ripped off.

Perhaps the taxes are too low?

[TedG]

2 hours ago, Will B Good said:

A Dutch single person receives a State pension that is 40% more than a UK single persons State pension.....we are being ripped off.

where is this money going to come from to increase your pension by 40%?

[Will B Good]

Just now, Purdey said:

Perhaps the taxes are too low?

 

 

Or high to pay for the pensions?

[Chomper Higgot]

2 hours ago, a3tsw said:

The Government spokesperson conveniently fails to mention that the triple lock annual increases are , for a growing number of recipients taxed at 20%.

No UK pensioner is paying taxes on their state pension unless they have other additional income.

 

 

[Chomper Higgot]

1 hour ago, JonnyF said:

Labour's priority is immigrants. They've been perfectly clear about that since they came to power.

 

They don't care about pensioners, farmers, schoolchildren, the disabled. They've screwed the lot to pay for the immigrants.

 

And they do it with a smug, self satisified smile.

 

 

 

The usual off topic triggered nonsense.

[brewsterbudgen]

Is it time to consider means testing the State pension?   After Labour's attempt at doing this for the winter fuel payment, I fear not!

[Chomper Higgot]

Just now, brewsterbudgen said:

Is it time to consider means testing the State pension?   After Labour's attempt at doing this for the winter fuel payment, I fear not!

 

It’s a really dumb idea, so of course Badenoch and the Tories are already on it:

 

“Asked whether this included the "triple lock" policy - under which state pension payments go up every year by the highest of inflation, average earnings or 2.5% - she replied: "That's exactly the sort of thing that the policy work we are going to be doing will look at".

 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62778jzggro.amp

[Will B Good]

3 minutes ago, TedG said:

where is this money going to come from to increase your pension by 40%?

 

Create a national investment fund

 

Invest internationally to generate pension income.

 

means-tested pensions

 

Close tax loopholes and broaden the tax base.

[brewsterbudgen]

2 minutes ago, Chomper Higgot said:

 

It’s a really dumb idea, so of course Badenoch and the Tories are already on it:

 

“Asked whether this included the "triple lock" policy - under which state pension payments go up every year by the highest of inflation, average earnings or 2.5% - she replied: "That's exactly the sort of thing that the policy work we are going to be doing will look at".

 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62778jzggro.amp

 

I'm no Tory, but what would be wrong with taking other income/pensions/savings into account.  Or have most high-earners/millionaires opted out already and therefore don't get a State pension?  

[Chomper Higgot]

3 minutes ago, brewsterbudgen said:

 

I'm no Tory, but what would be wrong with taking other income/pensions/savings into account.  Or have most high-earners/millionaires opted out already and therefore don't get a State pension?  

That’s what taxation does.

 

There are three main problems with means testing the state pension:

 

1. The cost of administering the means testing,

 

2. The inevitable result of people who absolute should not be excluded missing out, example people with learning difficulties, people suffering cognitive impairment, people suffering mental health issues.

 

3. Means testing the state pension would dissuade people saving for private pensions, particularly low/middle earners who are unable to build substantial private pension savings.

A universal state pension that provides for the base necessities is a far more civilized and cost effective solution.

[MarkBR]

2 hours ago, CharlieH said:

 

A national initiative is urgently required to combat pensioner poverty, as 2.8 million older citizens across the UK lack the financial means to maintain a basic standard of dignified living.

 

Sir Keir Starmer has been informed of the crisis, which has left many elderly individuals reducing their food intake, limiting energy usage, and avoiding social interaction in an effort to manage escalating costs, according to a recent investigation.

 

Despite the severity of the situation, the issue often remains overlooked, in part due to a persistent misconception that older generations enjoy financial security, while younger people face economic hardship. In response, MPs have called for a comprehensive UK-wide strategy to guarantee that all pensioners receive at least a minimum income sufficient for a dignified retirement. They also recommended appointing a dedicated advocate to represent pensioners’ interests and ensure their concerns are reflected in policymaking.

 

These recommendations stem from a report by the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee, chaired by Labour MP Debbie Abrahams. She stated: “After a lifetime of contribution, dignity in retirement is the least that should be expected. Yet far too many are being forced to make compromises that will accelerate physical and mental decline simply because they lack adequate income.”

 

The report highlights that 1.9 million pensioners—approximately one in six—are living in relative poverty, and 2.8 million reside in households falling below the Minimum Income Standard, which defines the level of income necessary for a modest but acceptable standard of living.

 

The committee also raised concerns about the rising state pension age, which reached 66 in 2020 and is scheduled to increase to 67 by 2028. Although intended to reflect increased life expectancy, this change disproportionately affects individuals in disadvantaged areas, where long-term ill health often makes it impossible to remain in employment until the new pension age. Many are therefore forced to depend on disability benefits instead.

 

Additionally, around 700,000 households eligible for Pension Credit are not claiming it, further exacerbating the problem. Independent Age warned that public assumptions about widespread affluence among the elderly obscure the financial struggles faced by those on the lowest incomes.

 

While MPs welcomed the Government’s decision to re-establish the Pensions Commission to examine the rise in pensioner poverty, they stressed that broader action is needed. They urged the Government to implement a cross-departmental strategy focused on promoting equitable health and wellbeing outcomes for the ageing population.

 

In response, a Government spokesperson said: “Supporting pensioners remains a key priority. Thanks to our commitment to the triple lock, millions are set to benefit from an increase of up to £1,900 in their annual state pension by the end of this Parliament.

“We have also launched the largest campaign to date to raise awareness and uptake of Pension Credit, resulting in nearly 60,000 additional households receiving the benefit—on average worth £4,300 per year.

 

“However, we recognise the risk that future pensioners may face greater financial insecurity, which is why we are reactivating the Pension Commission to address the structural challenges that hinder saving for retirement.”

 

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-07-24

 

 

 

 

A decent pension for British old folk when there are all the super-rich in UK who need get even more filthy rich by not being taxed at an appropriate level.  Starmer (the bluest of bluest Labour) is the friend of the rich.

[Will B Good]

13 minutes ago, brewsterbudgen said:

 

I'm no Tory, but what would be wrong with taking other income/pensions/savings into account.  Or have most high-earners/millionaires opted out already and therefore don't get a State pension?  

 

State pension take up is 97%, the balance being deferrals......so millionaires are certainly claiming their State pension.

 

By contrast, pension credits for poor people only have a take up of around 65%.

 

Gives you some idea of how means-testing could benefit the nation.

[TedG]

21 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

Create a national investment fund

 

Invest internationally to generate pension income.

 

means-tested pensions

 

Close tax loopholes and broaden the tax base.

The elephant in the room is the aging population and declining birth rates.   Which holds true for the counties in the West.   The social welfare state will crush the younger generations.  

 

I think pay as your go systems are a problem.   These need to be phased out and replaced with individual investment accounts. 

[Will B Good]

5 minutes ago, TedG said:

The elephant in the room is the aging population and declining birth rates.   Which holds true for the counties in the West.   The social welfare state will crush the younger generations.  

 

I think pay as your go systems are a problem.   These need to be phased out and replaced with individual investment accounts. 

 

 

The solution is a massive influx of young, educated, upwardly mobile immigrants........that'll work....555

[TedG]

Just now, Will B Good said:

 

 

The solution is a massive influx of young, educated, upwardly mobile immigrants........that'll work....555

Or the local popping out more kids.  

[Chomper Higgot]

5 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

 

The solution is a massive influx of young, educated, upwardly mobile immigrants........that'll work....555

It does actually.

[MarkBR]

10 minutes ago, Will B Good said:

 

 

The solution is a massive influx of young, educated, upwardly mobile immigrants........that'll work....555

Immigrants is how the USA transformed itself into the most powerful nation on Earth.    Of course, given the toxic nature of that debate in UK, as you intimated the chances of that are small.  UK will dwindle into irrelevancy - potentially a third world country unable to do anything due to not have enough taxpayers who pay appropriate amounts.

The strange thing is when US Americans suggest copying them.  They have a massive problem with poverty in the US, why would anyone want to copy their social welfare (or lack of effective) system?  Same goes for their tax systems, which Warren Buffett pointed out has some deeply rooted stuctural problems.

[proton]

31 minutes ago, Chomper Higgot said:

That’s what taxation does.

 

There are three main problems with means testing the state pension:

 

1. The cost of administering the means testing,

 

2. The inevitable result of people who absolute should not be excluded missing out, example people with learning difficulties, people suffering cognitive impairment, people suffering mental health issues.

 

3. Means testing the state pension would dissuade people saving for private pensions, particularly low/middle earners who are unable to build substantial private pension savings.

A universal state pension that provides for the base necessities is a far more civilized and cost effective solution.

 

 

Chomper is right about this one