Women facing poverty in old age

A "frightening" number of women face a poverty-stricken retirement, says a report published today.

Women's average retirement income is just pounds 138 a week, though those in Wales and the North of England have to survive on an average of less than pounds 120 a week. The figures were published by the Trades Union Congress as it launched a national campaign aimed at raising women's awareness of the importance of pensions and calling on the Government to take action.

A freephone pensions helpline (0800 882123) will operate this week offering advice on a range of pension-related issues, including finding out about your pension rights, part-time working and maternity leave. The pounds 138 UK average weekly income for women over 60 compares with pounds 159 for men. The TUC said its message to women was: "It is never too late to start thinking about a pension."