Woman looking at finances on computer concerned about retirement pension gap facing women

The Real Retirement Crisis Facing Women – and What You Can Do About It 

Imagine working your whole life… only to reach retirement with just £3,650 a year from your private pension. The retirement crisis facing women often leads to a deficit no one warned you about.

That’s not a worst-case scenario – it’s the average

And women are bearing the brunt of it. 

A recent report from NOW: Pensions lays bare what we at Women’s Wealth see every day: the current pension system wasn’t built for women. But with the right support, you can take back control and create a future that reflects your real life – and your real goals. 

Let’s break it down. 

The Pension Crisis No One Warned You About 

According to the report, the average private pension income at retirement is just £3,650 a year. That’s roughly £300 a month – or less than £10 a day

Even more alarming? 

Women retire with, on average, a third less pension savings than men. 

Why

Because the system rewards uninterrupted, full-time work – and punishes anyone who steps off that path. 

This retirement crisis women are facing isn’t about poor planning. 

It’s about real life

  • Taking time off to raise children or care for loved ones 
  • Working part-time or freelance without pension access 
  • Earning less on average due to structural inequality 
  • Navigating a system that hasn’t moved with the times 

You’re Not Behind – You’ve Been Sidelined 

You shouldn’t be financially penalised for raising a family, supporting ageing parents, or choosing flexibility. But right now, that’s exactly what’s happening. 

At Women’s Wealth, we don’t believe in guilt, shame, or scare tactics. 

We believe in taking action, starting now – no matter your age or income. 

What Does £3,650 a Year Really Get You? 

Let’s put that number in perspective: 

  • £3,650 a year = £304 a month 
  • That’s not enough to cover basic expenses – let alone enjoy your retirement 
  • Add the State Pension, and you may still be scraping by 

And yet too many women are told to just “figure it out later.” 

Later is now. And you deserve better. 

What You Can Do – Starting Today 

Here’s what we help women do every single day – and what you can start right now: 

1. Get Clear on Where You Stand 

Track down old workplace pensions. Check your State Pension forecast. Know your numbers – because you can’t plan in the dark. 

2. Start From Where You Are 

You don’t need a fortune to get started. Even small, regular contributions can build momentum with the right strategy. 

3. Use the System to Your Advantage 

Tax relief, compound growth, pension allowances – these tools are powerful when you know how to use them. 

4. Plan for the Life You Want 

Retirement isn’t the end of the story. It’s a new chapter. Whether that’s travel, a career switch, volunteering, or slowing down – your money should support your version of freedom. 

“But I’ve Left It Too Late…” 

We hear this all the time. 

It’s not too late. And you’re not alone. 

Whether you’re 35 or 65, there are still smart, strategic moves you can make to strengthen your future. 

The key is starting now – with guidance from people who get it. 

Don’t Settle for £3,650. You Deserve More. 

Every woman deserves a financially confident future – not one shaped by outdated systems or silent struggles. 

If you’re ready to take that first step: 

Book a free 15 minute call with a Women’s Wealth Money Mentor.

And if you want to start levelling up your knowledge…

Join our free Enable Membership to access short online courses and downloadable resources.


Check out our online events – we run monthly webinars on the topics that matter most to women, plus live sessions where you can ask your questions directly to our qualified advisers.


Your retirement isn’t just a number. 

It’s your time – and it should reflect everything you’ve worked for. 

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