Hi Smiley,
In the deferred scheme you have a choice after one year,two,three,four or five. You can take a lump sum which has accrued, less tax at your highest rate, or an increased weekly pension. The lump sum is accrued at 2% above Bank of England Base rate. Currently as you know only 0.5%. If you don't need the income now why not take it and invest it in a monthly cash ISA (Risk averse) or a monthly Equity ISA for growth. If you die whilst deferring for a lump sum, your spouse will get the lump sum, not sure about deferring for a higher weekly pension. As has been said, if you die, your state pension dies with you. Remember what our Grandparents told us "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush"
Bill