Jardine fights for Pension Justice

Fighting for justice for Edinburgh West Civil Service pensioners caught up in the Capita controversy has been a main focus for Christine Jardine, MP for Edinburgh West, over the past few months.

More than 20 local residents are facing lengthy delays getting their pension and in some cases, even information since Capital took over the running of the scheme in December of last year.

Some are facing financial hardship because a partner has died and Capita have yet to release funds they are owed, others have been forced to delay retirement because they cannot get settlement figures. Others need to retire as they are caring for very sick relatives and coping with balancing work and caring. Christine has raised the issue in Parliamentary three times, and met both the Government minister responsible and the officials appointed to get pensioners what they are owed.

She said: “It is absolutely appalling and ministers are as angry and frustrated as anyone else about the complete mess Capita has created.

“People who have been bereaved are being forced to wait months without any settlement and in at least one case that has made it challenging to meet bills and pay rent or mortgage.

“When Capita did come to parliament to talk to people, it was chaotic and they failed to make the progress my constituents need.”

Christine’s team will be working closely with the Government task force to end the delays and are keen to hear from anyone else who might be facing difficulties with them their Capita pensions.