1946 – 2026: The Forces Pension Society’s 80th Anniversary and our enduring purpose
This year presents an opportunity to celebrate the Forces Pension Society’s 80th Anniversary: eight decades of service to the Armed Forces community.
In the aftermath of World War II, the nation understandably turned its attention to post war efforts, including demobilisation, the creation of the Welfare State and the National Health Service. Despite their sacrifice, ensuring financial security for veterans and their families was by no means assured. The creation of the Society in 1946 was a crucial step in addressing the inequalities and uncertainties surrounding military pensions, ensuring that those who had given so much for their country and the bereaved were appropriately supported in financial terms to live a dignified retirement.
The formation of the Forces Pension Society
At this time in Britain’s history, military pensions were inconsistent, outdated, and, in many cases, insufficient. The initial purpose of what was then the Officers’ Pension Society was to advocate for fair and adequate pensions for retired officers. However, as the needs of the Armed Forces community evolved, so too did its purpose, captured in this enduring object in the Society’s Articles: to procure the improvement and increase of pensions, retired pay, gratuities, allowances, and other payments and benefits of and to personnel of all ranks, both serving and retired, of the Royal Navy, the Army, and the Royal Air Force, and of any other Armed Forces of the Crown……… and of and to the widows, widowers, relatives, and dependants of such personnel, and generally to promote and assist in promoting in every way the interests and welfare of members and former members of any such Armed Forces…….
In 2001 the Society became the Forces Pension Society, expanding its reach to better represent and support all ranks ensuring that every member of the military – past and present – had access to the support and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of military pensions. The Society’s expansion and its continued work to represent its members’ interests and influence policy are a direct continuation of the spirit of 1946.
The enduring purpose of the Forces Pension Society
For 80 years, the Forces Pension Society has remained steadfast in its commitment to securing fair pension rights for service members and veterans. Its vision aligns with the principles of duty, fairness, and trust that military service exemplifies. Key areas of its work include:
1. Campaigning / lobbying for appropriate pension provision
The Society has worked tirelessly to challenge outdated and unfair pension policies, ensuring that service members and their families receive what they rightfully deserve. Over the decades, it has successfully lobbied for pension improvements, fought against unjust decisions, and influenced government policy to better serve military personnel.
2. Providing expert guidance and support to its members
The complexity of military pensions has long been a challenge for service people. The Society provides expert guidance, helping individuals navigate their entitlements, understand their options, and make better informed life choices. Whether assisting those transitioning to civilian life or ensuring that widows / widowers and dependents receive their rightful benefits, the Society has become and remains an indispensable resource.
3. Helping raise awareness and understanding
The Society has always placed a strong emphasis on ‘through life education’ with the publication of articles, journals and newsletters. Today this effort also includes physical and virtual Roadshow presentations and a strong presence across the key social media platforms
Supporting our members and representing their interests
The Society has played a crucial role in protecting certain longstanding pension entitlements and securing future improvements in pension rights, particularly during times of major change, such as:
The transition to new pension schemes, including the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) 1975, 2005 and 2015 reforms.
Campaigns for inflation-linked pension adjustments to protect veterans from financial hardship leading to the Pensions Increase Act 1971.
The Justice for Widows campaign 2008 – 2014, successfully arguing that widows who subsequently cohabit or remarry shouldn’t forfeit their AFPS entitlements.
Advocacy for those affected by the AFPS 15 Remedy (McCloud), ensuring fair pension treatment after policy changes introduced by the Government in 2015 were found to be discriminatory.
Challenging the Government’s 2024 Inheritance Tax (IHT) policy proposals to ensure all AFPS Death in Service benefits remain out of scope of IHT, irrespective of the Service Persons’ marital status.
Looking to the Future
Now in its 80th anniversary year, the Society remains as vital as ever. With private and public sector pensions continuing to evolve, new challenges arise that require deep subject matter expertise, corporate memory, credibility and strength in membership numbers to help exert influence across government and shape policy deliberations.
80 years on, the legacy of those who first formed the Society endures in every campaign, every positive outcome, and every service member who receives the pension they deserve. We hope those who formed the Society 80 years ago would recognise and reflect positively on the Society they would see today.
Neil Marshall, Chief Executive
Further reading from the Chief Executive
