Did you work at the Ministry of Pensions?

26 February 2020

Do you know anyone who worked for the Ministry of Pensions, the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance or the DHSS?

We are looking for anyone who worked possibly in the 'awards' or 'pension payments/issue office' who remembers using the Great War Pension cards and ledgers.

As recently as 15-20 years ago there were still staff working who had been trained by First World War veterans (one former employee recalls a colleague who had been trained by a Great War RFC pilot).

The 'Holy Grail' we are seeking is a complete run of the day to day instructions for running the Ministry of Pensions Great War Pension scheme(s). However any contact from anyone who administered Great War Pensions would be fantastic.

Evidence within the cards that the WFA has saved suggests that these were still in operational use as recently as the late 1980s.

Recently Used Card Capture
The card indicates the records were still being used as late as 1988
Fold3 Page 1 1

The scheme was originally regionalised, but later came together, with the work being carried out possibly at Norcross (Blackpool) and also at Acton.

As background, the Ministry of Pensions operated until 1953 when, following a merger with the Ministry of National Insurance, the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance was formed.

Unnamed (1)
Ministry of Pensions staff undated, but possibly just after the First World War
St 15 Page 27 Mop Cornwall House
Ministry of Pensions staff, at 'Cornwall House'.
Photo Of Mop Date Unknown
This image, again undated may show staff at the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance

This operated until 1968 when this department merged with the Ministry of Health to form the 'DHSS'. Twenty years later, the two functions were separated, with the Department of Health and the Department of Social Security being formed. The latter becoming in 2001 the Department for Work and Pensions.

Q: How do I get in touch?

A: Please contact David Tattersfield by using our Pension Records contact form.

Latest news

Upscaled Enhanced Colourisediwt 15 Lo Res FULL Page 30 Image 0001 Firefly Upscaler 2X Scale
18 January 2026

I Was There! - 1916 accounts have commenced

Read more
Dr Spencer Jones
9 January 2026

Introducing our new President, Dr Spencer Jones

Read more
Cornwall UK Locator Map 2010.Svg
7 January 2026

Possible new Cornwall branch

Read more
Holt 20251229
6 January 2026

Valmai Holt awarded MBE in New Year Honours

Read more
Colinhardy Award 2026
5 January 2026

Return of the Colin Hardy Memorial Award for 2026

Read more
Stand To 140 Cover Image
3 January 2026

Stand To! 140 now available: the human cost of war

Read more