Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Retired Women Face 36.5% Pension Gap, Prospect/TUC Analysis Shows

Unions are urging the revived Pensions Commission to close retirement inequality.

Overview

  • The research estimates an average shortfall of about £7,600 a year for female pensioners.
  • The gap means women effectively stop receiving pension income from 21 August when compared with men, equating to more than four months without pay.
  • At 36.5%, the retirement income gap is more than double the 13.1% gender pay gap.
  • Prospect’s estimates indicate the gap has narrowed from 44.9% in 2011–12 to 36.5% in 2022–23, aided by higher female employment and state pension reforms.
  • A government spokesperson said the new state pension has reduced historic inequalities and that the revived Pensions Commission will address barriers in private pensions.