Almost 40,000 former mineworkers are set to enjoy a £100 weekly increase in their pensions, effective immediately. This boost, amounting to a significant 41%, follows persistent efforts to unlock surplus funds within the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) for its members.
The development was unveiled today following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ budget announcement, where it was disclosed that the government has shifted the £2.3 billion reserve – previously under government control since 1994 – back to BCSSS members. As part of this move, the affected individuals will also receive a one-time lump sum of £5,500, retroactive to November 2024 when adjustments were made to the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme.
The BCSSS scheme caters to former coal miners and non-mining personnel at collieries nationwide, including engineers, managers, canteen staff, and administrators. Of the close to 40,000 BCSSS members, approximately 40% are women. This decision follows a similar action last year when £1.5 billion was transferred to participants of the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme.
Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, lauded the resolution, acknowledging the efforts of mineworkers and advocates in rectifying this long-standing issue. Cheryl Agius, Chair of Trustees of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme, described the event as historic and a product of persistent collaboration and advocacy. Commending the members for their support and contribution in raising the matter with the government, the Trustees expressed gratitude and emphasized the alignment of BCSSS members with their counterparts in the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme.