The movement to reform the UK’s State Pension system is gaining real traction, as a new public petition pushes for a radical increase in weekly payments to £549—nearly two and a half times the current rate. With more than 18,700 signatures already collected and a deadline set for 26 May 2025, the proposal is fueling a national conversation about what constitutes a fair and livable retirement income.
If passed, this reform could transform pension policy by linking retirement income to the National Living Wage, lowering the pension age, and extending eligibility to British citizens living abroad.
What the Petition Proposes
Launched by campaigner Denver Johnson, the petition demands a complete overhaul of the existing State Pension structure, calling for a weekly payment that mirrors the income from a 48-hour workweek at the National Living Wage of £11.44/hour.
Petition at a Glance
| Proposal Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Weekly Pension Amount | £549.12 |
| Annual Equivalent | £28,554.24 |
| Eligibility Age | 60 and above |
| Expat Inclusion | Yes, includes British citizens abroad |
| Calculation Basis | 48 hrs/week × £11.44/hr |
This suggested rate would redefine pensions not as basic income, but as compensation for a lifetime of contribution—on par with modern wage standards.
Current Pension Rates: A Stark Contrast
The proposed figure far exceeds what pensioners will receive under the new 2025 State Pension increases.
State Pension Rates from June 2025
| Pension Type | Old Weekly Rate | New Weekly Rate | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| New State Pension | £221.20 | £230.25 | £11,973 |
| Basic State Pension | £169.50 | £176.45 | £9,175.40 |
Even with a 4.1% increase via the Triple Lock, the current payments fall short of the proposed £28,554 annual income, highlighting the gap the petition aims to close.
Why the Petition Resonates
This petition doesn’t just ask for more money—it demands a paradigm shift in how pensioners are supported:
- Lowering Pension Age to 60: Especially important for workers in manual or physically demanding roles.
- Living Wage Linkage: Suggests pensions should reflect a livable income, not just NI contribution history.
- Support for Expats: Addresses the long-standing issue of frozen pensions for over 450,000 overseas retirees.
Government’s Response: Not Budging—Yet
After surpassing the 10,000-signature threshold, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) issued a response:
- Reiterated that the State Pension is a contributory entitlement, not a benefit.
- Rejected the idea of increasing pensions to £549 per week.
- Cited the significant fiscal burden such a change would impose.
However, if the petition reaches 100,000 signatures by the deadline, Parliament must consider it for debate, potentially putting pressure on policymakers.
What Would Change for British Expats?
One of the petition’s most impactful provisions involves British retirees living in countries without reciprocal pension agreements—like Canada, Australia, and parts of Africa.
Currently, these pensioners do not receive annual increases, effectively watching their income erode over time.
Under the new proposal:
- Annual uprating would apply globally.
- All expats aged 60+ would receive the full £549/week.
- Hundreds of thousands could see restored financial dignity.
Broader Implications for the UK Economy
Supporters argue that better pensions would:
- Reduce elderly poverty.
- Lessen reliance on welfare support.
- Stimulate economic activity through increased retiree spending.
They also believe that aligning pensions with wages sets a new moral benchmark for valuing older citizens.
What Happens Next?
With 18,710 signatures gathered, there’s still a long road ahead before Parliament is required to respond further.
| Petition Progress | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Signatures | 18,710 (as of 25 May 2025) |
| Target | 100,000 |
| Deadline | 26 May 2025 |
| Debate Trigger Point | 100,000 signatures |
Whether you support the idea or not, the petition underscores a growing frustration with the existing pension framework—and a call for policies that reflect the realities of retirement in the 21st century.
As the deadline looms, public support could determine whether this proposal sparks real legislative action or fades into another missed opportunity.
FAQs:
Is the £549/week pension likely to be approved?
Not currently. The DWP has dismissed the proposal, but it may be debated if the petition reaches 100,000 signatures.
Why age 60 instead of 66?
Supporters argue many people in labor-intensive jobs struggle to work until 66 and deserve earlier retirement.
How would this affect taxes?
Significant increases in pension spending would likely require tax changes or budget reallocations.