Nearly 40,000 former mineworkers will see a significant increase of £100 per week in their pensions, effective immediately. This boost represents a 41% rise and follows extensive advocacy efforts to unlock surplus funds in the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) for its members.

The development comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves disclosed in the Budget that the government has transferred a £2.3 billion reserve, previously held since 1994, back to BCSSS members. During the Budget speech, Reeves affirmed the decision to transfer the investment reserve fund to ensure fair treatment for those who contributed to the coal industry.

Affected individuals will also receive a one-time lump sum of £5,500 today, retroactive to November 2024 when the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme increase took effect.

The BCSSS scheme caters to former coal miners and individuals in non-mining positions at collieries throughout the UK, including engineers, managers, canteen workers, and administrators. Approximately 40% of the nearly 40,000 BCSSS members are women. Notably, the government transferred £1.5 billion to Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme beneficiaries last year.

Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, acknowledged the efforts of mineworkers and advocates in rectifying a longstanding injustice. He lauded the pension increase, emphasizing its timely arrival before Christmas to provide retirees with the compensation they deserve.

Cheryl Agius, Chair of Trustees of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme, hailed the momentous occasion as a result of unwavering determination and collaboration. Expressing gratitude to members for their support, Agius highlighted the alignment of BCSSS members with their peers in the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme due to the investment reserve transfer.

The Trustees attributed the successful outcome to the assistance of members in raising the issue with the government over the past year, underscoring their appreciation for the continued support.