WOMEN fighting for pension inequality have another ally in their quest after gaining the backing of a council.

At a recent full council meeting of Barrow Borough Council, members voiced their support for campaign group, Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI).

The Barrow and District branch of WASPI is comprised of women affected by government changes to the age at which women can draw their pension.

Thousands of women in Furness and even more nationwide are being forced to work longer or survive by other means until they can access their retirement fund.

Cath Williams, co-founder of the Barrow WASPI branch expressed her gratitude following the council meeting.

She said: "Pat Molyneux and myself set this group up nearly two years ago and every positive step is a step nearer to the justice all the 1950s women in this country deserve.

"Many thanks to Barrow Council for their support."

The members of the branch recently attended a march and rally in Manchester to mark the birthday of Emmeline Pankhurst, one of the most important figures in the fight for women's rights and equality.

Mandy Penellum, secretary of the Barrow Trades Union Council, who also attended the council meeting, said "This campaign is dear to the heart of many in the trade union movement, and Barrow TUC has been proud to support the WASPI women in their fight against the inequality and injustice they face in getting their rightful pensions, as a result of the unfair changes imposed by this Government.

"Having the support of Barrow Borough Council is fantastic, and Barrow TUC is delighted to stand with the WASPI women and offer its on-going support for the WASPI campaign."

The WASPI campaign was set up to address the inequality caused by changed made to the 1995 and 2011 State Pension Acts. These sought to bridge the gap in retirement age between men and women, but as a result, meant thousands of women would have to wait longer for their pension. A fact very few of them were aware of.

After the unanimous vote of support in favour of WASPI, Cllr Alec Proffitt, said: "I am really proud that the local Labour group brought the motion to council as it is vital that we, as elected community representatives, stand up for those who are being treated unfairly. I am delighted that the motion was passed unanimously and I hope it sends a clear and unambiguous message to the 4,000 or so affected women across Furness: the Council are on your side and we support you in your battle for justice."

For more information about the local WASPI campaign please e-mail barrowdistrictwaspigroup@gmail.com