Britain’s State Pension age is on the move again, and for millions of people in their 60s managing chronic health conditions, the wait for retirement just got longer. The government has moved to reassure those affected that a suite of financial and employment support measures remains available to bridge the gap.
The State Pension age currently stands at 66 for all, but is set to rise to 67 between April 2026 and April 2028 for anyone born on or after April 6, 1960. A further increase to 68 is planned for 2044–2046, though that remains subject to review. The changes have prompted fresh concern about those who reach their early 60s in poor health, a far from uncommon situation.
According to the World Health Organisation, more than 90% of people aged 65 and over have at least one chronic condition, with heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis and dementia among the most prevalent. In the UK, the NHS puts the share of people with a long-term health condition at roughly one in three.
A Parliamentary Question Prompts Government Response
The issue was brought into parliamentary focus by Conservative MP Simon Hoare, who represents North Dorset. Hoare wrote to the Department for Work and Pensions asking what steps were being taken to help so-called “pre-pensioners“, those with long-term health conditions who must now wait longer before receiving their State Pension.Â
Responding on behalf of the department, DWP minister Dame Diana Johnson outlined the existing support framework. “People with long-term health conditions will continue to be supported by the benefit system, including Personal Independence Payments (PIP), up to and beyond reaching State Pension age, and Universal Credit for those unable to work before reaching retirement,” Johnson said in her written reply.
She also pointed to the Keep Britain Working Review, led by Sir Charlie Mayfield, whose final report was published in November 2025, and noted a subsequent “Vanguard Phase” is now underway to test new employer-led approaches for disabled people and those with health conditions.
What Support Is Actually on Offer
According to the government, several programs are specifically designed to help older workers remain in or return to employment. These include Employment Advisors embedded within NHS Talking Therapies, Individual Placement and Support in Primary Care, the Pathways to Work initiative, WorkWell, and Access to Work grants.Â
For workers aged 50 and over, dedicated resources within jobcentres, including 50PLUS Champions and the Midlife MOT, offer tailored guidance connecting people with health services, skills development, financial support and employers.
Johnson added that as part of plans for a new Jobs and Careers Service, the government is “considering the best way to support customers aged 50 and over, and customers with health conditions, so that they can access support to find good, meaningful work.”
On the benefits side, PIP remains available to those aged 16 and over with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability, provided the difficulties are expected to last at least 12 months. Universal Credit, meanwhile, is open to those on low incomes who are under State Pension age and hold savings of no more than £16,000. Residents of Scotland must apply for Adult Disability Payment rather than PIP.
