Isle Of Wight WASPI Campaigners Mark Ten Years Of Fighting For Justice

Members of Solent & Isle of Wight WASPI gathered in Ryde on 29 August to mark 10 years of campaigning for thousands of 1950s-born women hit by state pension age changes.

The Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign argues women were not properly informed about the changes, leaving many with their retirement plans in chaos.

Despite an Ombudsman ruling that they had suffered an injustice, the Government has so far refused to offer compensation – sparking fury among campaigners.

Local coordinator Shelagh Simmons said:

“This anniversary recognises our strength and solidarity – but it’s also a reminder that justice is long overdue.

"Despite Labour’s betrayal, we will never stop fighting until every single one of the 1950s women receives the justice they deserve.”

The national WASPI campaign is now taking Labour to court, with a High Court hearing scheduled for 9–10 December.

Island politicians have voiced support. East Wight Conservative MP Joe Robertson called the Government’s stance “a failure of priorities” and praised local women for their “decade of hard work seeking justice.”

Lib Dem councillor Michael Lilley said it was “disgraceful” women had been forced to go to court, adding:

“They are our grandmothers, mothers, sisters and neighbours… and they have my full support.”

WASPI members say they are grateful for strong cross-party support locally and are due to meet West Wight Labour MP Richard Quigley in September.

For more information, visit waspi.co.uk.