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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>
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