Pensions are the least discussed yet most critical employee benefit for financial support after retirement.
As legislated by government, most teachers are members of the Teachers Pension Scheme. Many other staff are members of the LGPS, USS, NHS, or other scheme. Pensions are often deemed as important but not immediately urgent. Rarely are the pension schemes given in depth focus, and rarely do pension holders and the pension providers meet.
In October 2019, and in conjunction with the recognised campus Unions, UCU and UNISON, BU hosted a three day Pension Event – the largest ever seen in the UK southern region. The event was open to scheme members from Universities, Colleges, Schools and other institutions in the Region. Its purpose: to offer an opportunity for pension holders to join in and meet the faces behind their scheme. The event was an unprecedented success with more attendees than sessions available.
BU UCU are not financial advisors, however, we are able to draw upon the National Pensions Officers for all the schemes.
As working conditions change for staff members, along with contracts, benefits, and changes in finances from the government, institutional, and personal perspective, BU UCU are keen observers of the institution’s pension management. BU UCU can call upon, as necessary, Pensions Regulatory bodies and invoke legal remedies, should local negotiations fail.
If you have a query around missing pension contributions, please contact the BU UCU Pensions Rep via UCUBUoffice@bournemouth.ac.uk.
