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<p>We have launched a multi-channel campaign to help people understand the reforms to the state pension system, as well as actions people may be able to take to increase their State Pension. The campaign is testing the effectiveness of our communications channels and messages for reaching our priority audiences. The campaign has involved press, radio and online advertisements, and an enhanced package of online information at GOV.UK. We have also teamed up with YouTube to launch ‘PensionTube’, an online hub bringing together pensions-related content from the video sharing service, making it easier for people to find information both from the Government and trusted independent sources.</p><p> </p><p>One of the changes we are making is the introduction of the Minimum Qualifying Period, which means that people will normally need to have 10 qualifying years of National Insurance prior to reaching State Pension age in order to receive any State Pension. The introduction of the Home Responsibilities Protection scheme in 1978, the subsequent conversion of those years to qualifying years of National Insurance credits and the replacement of that scheme with credits for parents and carers in 2010 have protected National Insurance records, particularly women’s. National Insurance credits can also be awarded in other circumstances and are for the most part awarded automatically with certain benefits.</p><p> </p><p>Those who still have gaps in their National Insurance record may be able to increase their state pension by making voluntary National Insurance contributions.</p><p> </p><p>The introduction of the Minimum Qualifying Period is expected to affect a small minority of women in the UK. Indeed, by the 2030s, we expect that around 80 per cent of women reaching State Pension age will get the full rate of the new State Pension.</p> |