Stop means testing pensioners and pay a decent State pension

For too long, our pensioners, many of whom have contributed decades of work and taxes, have faced an undignified and intrusive process of means testing. 

This system is not only demeaning but has, in many cases, prevented pensioners from accessing adequate support. 

The notion that a fair state pension requires pensioners to repeatedly “prove” need is both unjust and outdated, especially for a demographic that has long supported the nation’s welfare system.

We believe the current structure undermines the fundamental social contract between the state and its citizens. In earlier generations, the promise was that, after a lifetime of work, one would be able to retire with dignity and security. Today, however, we are seeing a return to a Dickensian reality, where only those with independent wealth can avoid the pitfalls of financial insecurity in their later years. Without a robust and fair State pension system, we risk consigning the elderly to lives of unnecessary hardship.

Our petition, available here, calls for an end to means testing for pensioners and advocates for an increase in the state pension. We envision a future where no elderly person in Britain has to choose between heating their home and having a meal. Our petition highlights that, in contrast to many European nations, the UK ranks low in pension support, leaving our elderly at risk of poverty and financial insecurity.

As of now, we need public support to reach 10,000 signatures, which would obligate a government response, and 100,000 to bring this matter to a Parliamentary debate. We urge readers to consider signing this petition as a step towards restoring dignity, fairness, and security for our elderly population. It is a simple step that can make a substantial difference.