Thousands of people are being warned they may miss out on a Government pension backpay that millions are eligible for.

Campaigners from WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) are warning tens of thousands of women born in 1950 that they could end up missing out on the boost.

Research from the group shows that 38,000 older women will die this year without receiving what they are owed if the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) doesn’t agree a payout.

WASPI has called for a payout between £11,000 and £20,000 for those who were not given enough warning that the State Pension age was going up from 60 to 66.

The group argues that the women affected by the change were not given the chance to plan for their retirement, believing they would begin receiving their pension at 60.

Angela Madden, WASPI campaign chair and finance director, said: "It is widely acknowledged that WASPI women were wronged in the process of their retirement age changing from 60 to 66.

“The changes were made without properly being communicated, leaving thousands out of pocket. Many opted to retire early to care for relatives, not realising they would have an additional six years to endure before their State Pension came in.

"A recent Ombudsman investigation confirms this, finding the DWP guilty of maladministration and suggesting it take steps to compensate affected women.

“Our concern now is that the Government will drag its feet, essentially running down the clock on WASPI women fast approaching the latter stages of their life.

"WASPI women are suffering now, many are dying. Yet still the Government refuses to meet with us to discuss compensation.

“We urge Rishi Sunak to take responsibility and deliver the WASPI women the justice they deserve before any more of us die."