Response to the Cridland Review of the State Pension age

“For those with poor long-term health or disability who are unable to work up to state pension age, Cridland has made some recommendations on changes to the benefits system to reduce potential hardship that many will suffer as a result of these increases.

“Simply raising the state pension age without additional support will leave many people further away from a secure later life. Currently, less than half of people are working the year before they reach State Pension age. Wider action is needed to make the labour market fit for purpose if people are to work for longer.

“We urge employers to make workplaces and employment practices more age-friendly. This means recognising the contribution that older workers make, treating them fairly, especially when it comes to opportunities for development and progression, and tackling all forms of ageism and discrimination in the workplace. The proposals for mid-life MOTs and supporting older workers to become mentors and trainers are welcome.

“We know that people aged 50 and over are more likely to have caring responsibilities and/or health conditions. We welcome the recommendation for statutory carers leave. Flexible working arrangements that allow people to balance health, care and work are essential.”

Whilst the Cridland review has touched on the four key areas set out in our earlier submissions, Government now needs to respond positively to John Cridland’s recommendations, and in addition consider a more extensive package of support for those adversely affected by these changes. Government should:

• Maintain the value of the state pension to ensure it provides a minimum income to protect people from poverty in later life in future
• Make the state pension universal: everyone should get access to the same state pension at the state pension age
• Consider more radical benefit reform for those with poor long-term health or disability to mitigate any increase in state pension age

Since the start of the Review in March 2016, John Cridland and his Independent Review Team have been gathering evidence and talking to stakeholders and the public across the United Kingdom.  The Centre for Ageing Better has been an active voice throughout and has provided detailed advice and submissions.