From Wendy Mitchell, Cowes:

I am unfortunate enough to have been born in 1956.

Therefore, I will have to wait until I am 66 years old for my state pension — six years later than friends who are just a couple of years older than me.

I have worked since 1974 and before that, even had a Saturday job.

I was employed all of the time my children were growing up and have studied in the evenings to progress my career.

In July, 2015, when suffering with severe sciatica, I could no longer work in a reception class.

I handed in my notice as no other job was available to me at the school.

The sciatica became debilitating. I could manage to stand and bend for about two hours a day.

I could not drive, carry shopping or use a Hoover.

My husband had to drive me everywhere, do the housework and I had to rely on him for any money that I spent. I have no income.

In January, I had an op that cured the sciatica completely (three years after the onset) and am now working on building up stamina and fitness.

It is, however, very difficult getting a job at 62, especially after having been so disabled.

I am not alone. Women born at this time are not asking for handouts just what everyone else in the country has been entitled too.

It is not just the pension but free bus travel, concessions  and other benefits.

I think politicians are failing to understand the severe effect this is having on women. Having no money of your own does very little for you self esteem.

I understand people are living longer but why have women born in the Fifties been picked as the ones who can afford to go six years without money they had planned on with very little prior warning. It is extremely unfair.