Examining gender pension gaps: trajectories over time in the UK

This project will develop a framework for measuring the gender pension gap over time. 

Why is this important?

The gender pension gap is recognised as a major source of inequality. Existing estimates show that women in the UK hold 35% less private pension savings than men and 67% of pensioners in poverty are women. Yet despite regular policy debates, there is no consensus on how the gender pension gap should be defined or monitored, or how gendered differences in pension accumulation unfold over time. 

What does it involve?

The research team aim to address this gap by:  

• Mapping how the gender pension gap is conceptualised and measured in UK research, policy, and practice. 
• Assessing the implications of these differences. 
• Developing a framework for more consistent, policy-relevant understanding. 

The research will be completed over two stages: 

1. Conducting a systematic review of academic and grey literature to map existing definitions and measures of the gender pension gap, informed by engagement with expert networks. This will enable typology development and production of a policy-oriented framework alongside visual mapping of definitions and indicators. 
2. Undertaking quantitative analysis of private pension savings of those aged 30 to 54 using five waves of the Wealth and Assets Survey. The analysis will model pension trajectories, examining scheme ownership, contribution levels, and accumulated funds. Results will be cross-referenced with datasets such as ASHE, Financial Lives, and Understanding Society. 

How will it make a difference?

Findings will be shared with key stakeholders, including policymakers, public audiences, and industry groups, to inform:   

• Standardised indicators for monitoring the gender pension gap.   
• Policy changes to address family care and employment patterns in pension design.   
• Proposals for joint pension ownership and improved sharing during divorce.