The High Court has confirmed a December hearing for the Women Against State Pension Inequality’s (Waspi) legal challenge, with research from the campaign group revealing that many of those impacted still remain worried about their finances.

The two-day hearing, on 9 and 10 December 2025, will see Waspi campaigners present their case to a senior High Court judge, before government lawyers outline their defence, with a final decision in the case expected around spring 2026.

If the High Court rules in Waspi's favour, it could prompt the government to review its handling of the ombudsman’s recommendations; however, it cannot require the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to provide direct compensation.

The DWP previously accepted that there was maladministration in relation to how it communicated changes to women's state pension age (SPA), although it rejected the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman's (PHSO) proposed remedy, meaning that no financial compensation would be paid.

The Waspi campaign group subsequently announced plans to pursue legal action, describing the government’s response as “flawed” and urging ministers to reconsider their position.

The hearing confirmation comes as recent polling of more than 5,000 Waspi women revealed that almost three-quarters (72 per cent) of Waspi women are still concerned about their finances, with many feeling that the government has "taken their votes for granted".

Government lawyers are also expected to submit supporting documentation to the Waspi lawyers regarding their defence following confirmation of the hearing date, along with 'Detailed Grounds of Resistance' that fully explain that defence in advance of the hearing.

The campaign group highlighted this as a "crucial stage" in the litigation process, explaining that its legal team will be scrutinising every page and preparing a response.

Waspi chair, Angela Madden, said that with the court date “on the horizon”, Waspi women are “more determined than ever” to secure fair compensation.

“We are backed by hundreds of MPs across the political parties, dozens of trade unions and influential organisations, alongside an overwhelming majority of the public,” Madden added.

“Ministers should stop dithering and get around the table with Waspi women or face being forced to defend the indefensible in court in a matter of weeks.”

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