DWP £427 a week: Government to raise the New State Pension from £11,502 annually to £22,000

A new petition in the UK is gaining attention, asking the government to raise the New State Pension from £11,502 to £22,000 per year. Over 9,000 people have already signed the petition, urging the Labour Government to support pensioners with a fair income—equal to someone earning the National Living Wage for a 35-hour workweek.

This push comes at a time when many older people are struggling with rising living costs, high energy bills, and food expenses.

What the Petition Is Asking For

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The petition demands that the New State Pension should be increased to match the full-time National Living Wage, which is £11.44 per hour in 2024. This equals over £22,000 a year for someone working 35 hours per week. Currently, pensioners receive only £221.20 per week, or £11,502 a year, under the State Pension.

The petition states:

“We must not allow our senior citizens, who have contributed so much to our society, to struggle through their sunset years. We consider that it is a matter of fairness and respect.”

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Supporters believe this increase would help pensioners live with dignity and avoid falling into poverty.

Why This Matters

This campaign is important because:

• Pensioners with no private pensions or savings often rely only on the State Pension
• Many are struggling to afford basic needs like food, heating, and rent
• The current pension amount is almost half of what full-time workers earn

An increase to £427 per week could:

• Improve the quality of life for millions of retirees
• Reduce reliance on social support services
• Honour the contributions pensioners made during their working years

Current State Pension Rate

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As of 2024/25, the full New State Pension pays:

• £221.20 per week
• £884.80 every four weeks
• £11,502 per year

In contrast, someone working full-time on the National Living Wage will earn:

• £11.44 per hour
• Over £22,000 per year

This big gap has sparked concerns about fairness and economic security for older citizens.

Government’s Response So Far

The petition has been sent to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Labour-led Government. However, there has been no official response yet. Once the petition reaches 10,000 signatures, the Government is required to give a formal reply. If it reaches 100,000, it may be debated in Parliament.

This petition follows recent increases in the National Minimum Wage, based on recommendations from the Low Pay Commission (LPC). From April 2024, workers aged 21 and over earn £11.44 per hour.

Baroness Philippa Stroud, Chair of the LPC, stated:

“The Government have been clear about their ambitions for the National Minimum Wage and its importance in supporting workers’ living standards.”

She also acknowledged the challenges businesses face in meeting higher wage costs, but insisted that the changes are essential.

With inflation and the cost of living still rising, this petition brings attention to the financial struggles of pensioners in the UK. Many believe the current State Pension of £11,502 is simply not enough for a comfortable life, especially when full-time workers earn double that amount.

The petition to raise the pension to £22,000 per year highlights the need for fair treatment of older citizens. As it gains more support, it could lead to real debate and possibly change. For now, pensioners and supporters are encouraged to sign and share the petition to push for a dignified retirement for all.

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