The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists today (Tuesday 1st August) welcomes the publication of the consultation document “Moving to the Future: The NHS Pension Scheme Review”, which contains proposals for a review of the NHS pension scheme in England and Wales. The document represents the culmination of three years of partnership working and some tough negotiations between NHS trade unions and the NHS employers.
The main proposals are:
- Normal Pension Age for existing staff remains at 60
- Final salary pensions for existing and new staff
- A new pension scheme for new staff with a Normal Pension Age of 65 for all new staff
- The introduction of a 4 tiered contribution rate across all NHS staff based on earnings
- The extension of survivor partner pensions for all couples in long term relationships backdated to 1998
All NHS staff would pay contributions according to their full time equivalent earnings. Those below £15,107 (Afc point 9) would pay 5%; those earning between £15,108 and £60,880 (Afc point 10-48) would pay 6.5%; those earning between £60,880 and £100,00 (Afc point 49 and above) would pay 7.5%, and those earning above £100,00 would pay 8.5%.
The SCP has participated in these negotiations, which have been lead by Eddie Saville, our Director of Employment Relations.
Commenting on the proposals Eddie Saville says:
“At the start of this process back in 2003 the health unions objectives were to see existing staff’s normal pension age of 60 honoured and to maintain the principal of a final salary pension for all who work in the NHS. I am delighted that we have achieved this and more on behalf of our members. At a time when occupational pensions are under threat in some sectors NHS unions have secured a pension package that is sustainable for the future and offers members added security in their retirement. It is a package that will see many lower paid members paying less for their existing pension, with the vast majority of members paying a ½% extra. High earners will pay higher contributions. The unions have worked closely to ensure that this package represents good value for money for members, whilst at the same time encouraging members to develop their careers. One of the greatest breakthroughs has been the extension of survivor partner pensions for all couples in long term relationships backdated to 1998, something unions have been campaigning for many years”.
The new scheme with a 65 normal pension age will offer new NHS staff and staff who chose to switch to the new scheme many benefits to aid flexible working and choice, and an accrual rate of 1/60th.
SCP members will have the opportunity to have a say on the proposals during a 3-month period of consultation, which will start on the 1st September until the 30th November.
For further information, contact:
Adam Thomas: 0845 450 3737 / at@scpod.org
Notes to Editors
The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists is the biggest professional body and trade union for registered chiropodists and podiatrists in the UK. It provides educational and professional support and guidance for registered chiropodists and podiatrists.
Soc Chiropodists & Podiatrists 2-Aug-2006
Categories: Footnote
Story read 3621 times
