In recent times, 35 to 44-year-olds have demonstrated the weakest pension confidence over the past six months according to PensionBee‘s Retirement Confidence Index. As a result, the incoming government must review the pensions and retirement savings system to instil more confidence.
This is the view of 87 per cent of respondents in a PensionBee survey, with 92 per cent of 35 to 44-year-olds supporting it.
Additionally, maintaining the abolition of the Lifetime Allowance, a recent reversal in Labour’s plans was favoured by 61 per cent of respondents. Over a third (37 per cent) of respondents believed it encourages saving for the future. Meanwhile almost a quarter (24 per cent) noted that any changes would directly impact their retirement planning.
Meanwhile, the Conservatives’ ‘Triple Lock Plus’ policy, resonated with older voters, as almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of over 55s were aware of this policy and broadly understood its aims. Less than 10 per cent of over 55s were unaware of the policy, the lowest rate among all age groups.
Taxes and social care
A significant proportion (60 per cent) of respondents indicated they would likely vote for a party pledging to scrap inheritance tax. Previous research from PensionBee found that while 30 per cent of over 55s would like to see the tax abolished completely, only 15 per cent of young savers (age 18-34) shared this sentiment, instead favouring a more means-tested approach.
Prioritising the NHS and social care funding was highlighted as another priority, with almost 70 per cent of respondents stating they were likely to vote for a party that committed to increased spending in this area, even at the expense of higher taxes.
Sustainable investing and looking to the future
Meanwhile, the Green Party’s pledge for pension funds to divest from fossil fuel assets by 2030 indicated a clear contrast from the preference of customers in PensionBee’s default plan. Almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of customers in the Tailored plan favoured continued investment in fossil fuels, citing profitability and the potential to drive change through AGM votes as reasons not to divest.
When asked about their feelings towards the future, overall respondents felt optimistic about a change of government (55 per cent), while more people (23 per cent) felt unsure rather than pessimistic (21 per cent) about the change. Younger savers were the most optimistic (68 per cent) about a new government, whereas those aged 65+ were the least (40 per cent) likely to express this sentiment.
Becky O’Connor, director of public affairs at PensionBee
Becky O’Connor, director of public affairs at PensionBee, commented: “Pensions often face policy changes due to the costs involved for the Treasury in offering tax relief and the State Pension, but also because votes can be won or lost through adjustments to people’s retirement prospects.
Our survey clearly shows that voters are eager for meaningful reforms in some areas of the pension system and continuity in others, reflecting a broader need for financial security.
The ability for working people to build a decent pension is a key pillar of a well-functioning society and the incoming government has a significant opportunity to implement policies that foster confidence and trust among savers, ensuring a financially secure future for all.”
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