Pensions Journalist of the Year (Consumer) 2026
Winner
Tanya Jefferies, The Daily Mail & This is Money
Tanya stood out in a strong category as a true champion of her readers, with the panel describing her as “a journalist who combines genuine insight and high-quality information for her readers with the ability to highlight issues that influence government policy”.
“This is a very strong entry that demonstrates a commitment to breaking down complex rules and turning it into understandable, practical and actionable information for ordinary savers,” commented one judge, “the campaign on state pension top-ups is an excellent example of this, helping readers recover money but contributed to concrete government action, showing influence and clear support for her audience”. Tanya also found fresh, imaginative ways of presenting pensions advice, weaving in practical tips easy for readers to understand and action.
Highly Commended
Laura Purkess, Freelance
“Complex issues well explained” was a recurring comment from the judges, keen to recognise Laura’s “great set of articles, showing an ability to adapt her style for different audiences without losing any focus on the key points”. The panel admired Laura’s “excellent use of exclusives, which ensured she often led the pensions news agenda”. “These often-foreshadowed key government announcements, demonstrating a great range of sources,” highlighted one judge.
Shortlist:
Jessica Beard, The Daily Mail & This is Money
Megan Harwood-Baynes, The Times & Sunday Times
Tanya Jefferies, The Daily Mail & This is Money
Laura Purkess, Freelance
Rob White, The Telegraph
