The government’s decision to reject compensation for women affected by the rise in state pension age is being reconsidered. This follows a 28-month delay in sending letters and a lack of proper communication to 3.6 million women born in the 1950s. A survey from 2007, not shown to the Work and Pensions Secretary at the time, has now come to light and will be considered. While there’s no guarantee of a payout, campaigners see this as a significant step forward. The Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden, clarifies that retaking the decision doesn’t ensure financial redress. The undisclosed evidence includes a survey, and checks will be made to ensure no other relevant documents are missed. No timeline has been set, but the government acknowledges the importance of a thorough review. Angela Madden, from Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi), welcomes the government’s acknowledgment of their mistake and hopes for a swift resolution. She advocates for immediate compensation, emphasizing the injustice faced by these women. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman recommended compensation of £1,000 to £2,950, but the government rejected it, citing a lack of ‘direct financial loss’ and arguing against a flat rate payment of up to £10.5bn. The Waspi campaign seeks a judicial review, having raised funds for a legal challenge. The case is set to go to the High Court in December, with the government’s latest decision now informed to the court. The state pension age has been increasing due to longer life expectancy, currently at 66 for both men and women. However, for decades, men received their pension at 65 and women at 60. The 1995 Pensions Act aimed to equalize the pension age, raising it to 65 for women by 2020. The 2011 Pensions Act accelerated this, bringing the qualifying age forward to 2018. This rapid change and communication have been controversial, with campaigners arguing for fair treatment and compensation for the affected women.