Important changes to pensions for all staff
From 1 April 2013 new legislation under The Pensions Act 2008 states that anyone working under a contract of employment for three months or more, aged 22 to state pension age and earning over a specific level of earnings, must be automatically enrolled into a work placed pension scheme.
Any staff who have previously decided to opt out of paying into one of our schemes will be affected by the new legislation and automatically enrolled if they meet the criteria mentioned. Staff will be able to opt out should they wish to do so.
We estimate that around 1000 employees (including school employees) may be affected.
Auto enrolment also applies to anyone who undertakes work for the Council under a contract for personal services, but not as part of a business, and therefore may not receive their payment on the payroll system. Work is on-going to identify those to whom this applies.
Whilst 1 April 2013 is the date we will implement the new legislation, employers can delay enrolling those who are eligible on 1 April 2013 until 1 October 2017. This is called a ‘transitional period’ and we have decided to follow this option.
Action
We need to identify anyone undertaking work for the Council that isn’t on our payroll system. If you believe this applies to anyone in your area contact HRPolicyTeam@plymouth.gov.uk to discuss how auto enrolment will affect these workers.
We will be writing to all employees during April about these changes so it’s important that we hold correct address details for employees. Discuss this with your team and ask anyone whose details are out of date to either complete the Change of Personal Details form below, contact the Payroll Team on 305525 or email payrollteam@plymouth.gov.uk.
Further information
Read our frequently asked questions page for more information. If you still have further questions contact the Pensions Team on 398112 or email pensions@plymouth.gov.uk.