NHS CHOICE EXERCISE – GUIDANCE PACK FOR STAFF SIDE REPS

As part of the Choice Exercise communications, SPPA have prepared an information pack for Trade Union/ Staff Representatives. This pack will include a copy of the Choice Guide, Poster, DVD, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document and guidance on where to obtain further information and assistance. The packs will be available from early December 2009.

Individual reps can then request a pack directly from SPPA via the choice e-mail box nhschoiceexercise@scotland.gsi.gov.uk and provide mailing details.

“Your Pension – Your Choice” DVD - To help members make their pension Choice, Financial Expert, Alvin Hall explains the differences between the 1995 Section and new 2008 Section of the NHS Pension Scheme is also available and can be viewed at this link http://www.sppa.gov.uk/nhs_dvd.htm.

Members can request their own copy of this DVD by e-mail to NHSChoiceExercise@scotland.gsi.gov.uk NICOLA MORRIS AREA ORGANISER UNISON SCOTLAND Tel: 0141 342 2802 Fax: 0141 342 2835 Mobile: 07950261626 n.morris@unison.co.uk

National Health Service Superannuation Scheme

The NHS Superannuation Scheme was introduced in 1948. It is a statutory – guaranteed by law – Scheme which provide pensions and life assurance for those employed by the NHS in Scotland. It also provides benefits upon a members death for life to either your legal spouse, registered civil partner, qualifying partner or dependant children until the age of 23 (however this can be extended in certain circumstances).

The NHS has separate schemes throughout the UK. England and Wales have a scheme and Northern Ireland also has its own scheme.

The Scottish Public Pensions Agency (SPPA) administers the National Health Service Superannuation Scheme (Scotland) on behalf of Scottish Ministers.

Changes to the scheme - NHS Choice Exercise

New arrangements for the NHS Pension scheme were introduced on 1 April 2008. Existing members will have the option to transfer to the new 2008 section and convert all of their existing service to pensionable service in the new 2008 section.

When the time comes to make a choice, members will be issued with a pack by the SPPA containing information to help them make an informed decision. Staff who were members of the Superannuation scheme before 1 April 2008 and still members on 1 October 2009 will be eligible to participate in the Choice exercise. The main Choice exercise will not start before January 2010.

For further information on the NHS Choice Exercise click here
http://www.sppa.gov.uk/nhschoice.htm