So, is it pocket money? It’s better. It’s “historic, booze-funded, freedom money.” For many of these men, who might have served in World War II or Northern Ireland, receiving a tidy sum each week with zero strings attached is a final, glorious victory. They don’t need to clip coupons or worry about the gas bill. Their only financial stress is whether to get a gin & tonic with the pie or just a cider.
Next time you see a Chelsea Pensioner in his scarlet coat, don’t feel sorry for him. He has a free house, free beer, a brewery in his backyard, and £131 of pure, unadulterated “do-what-I-want” cash. He is, without doubt, winning at retirement. And if you’re ever in London and you see one, don’t ask for his autograph. Just ask him what brand of gin he’s buying with his pocket money this week. He’ll have a very strong opinion on it.
So, to answer the original question: Yes, Chelsea Pensioners get pocket money. And they spend it on all the things you’d spend your pocket money on – if you lived in a palace, wore a sword, and had a permanent lunch date with history. Honestly, I’m a bit jealous.
