Former British coal miners are receiving a timely Christmas boost as their pensions see a significant increase this week. From Tuesday 23 December, members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) will see, on average, an extra £100 added to their weekly payments.
This first instalment of a 41% uplift follows the government’s move to transfer a £2.3 billion reserve, held since 1994, directly to scheme members. Backdated to November 2024, the increase means most recipients will receive a lump sum of around £5,500 today, just in time for the festive season.
The BCSSS includes not only former coal miners but also those who worked in non-mining roles at collieries across the UK, such as engineers, managers, canteen staff, and administrators. More than 5,000 women, representing 13% of the scheme, will also benefit from the payout. Last year, the government delivered £1.5 billion to members of the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme, supporting over 100,000 people.
Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, highlighted the significance of the announcement: “I want to pay tribute to all the mineworkers and all the campaigners involved in ending this decades-long injustice. Today, thousands will rightly see a 41% uplift in their pension payment just before Christmas – providing them with the retirement they deserve.”
Cheryl Agius, Chair of Trustees of the BCSSS, described the payment as historic. “This is a historic moment – the result of a year of determination, advocacy and collaboration – and it marks a turning point for the Scheme. The government has listened to the Trustees, Scheme members, and Coalfield MPs that have supported this issue,” she said. Agius added that the payout brings BCSSS members into alignment with the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme, who received their reserve last year, and thanked members for their support over the past twelve months.
Looking ahead, the government will meet with BCSSS Trustees in the New Year to discuss surplus sharing arrangements. Meanwhile, plans to revitalise industrial heartlands across the UK continue through clean energy investment. The sector, funded by over £62 billion of private investment since July 2024 alongside historic government funding, is expected to create over 800,000 jobs by 2030 – more than double the 2023 level. These positions are intended to benefit communities in former coal mining areas, offering well-paid opportunities close to home and contributing to local economic growth.
