Message from our pensions team: Do you know about retire and return and partial retirement?

August 31, 2023

Retire and return – This is an option for members of the NHS Pension Scheme to retire from their current post and return into a new role. This option requires the employment to be terminated and a new contract is given. The member returns after a 24 hour break with a new contract.

Draw down or partial retirement – This is when a member is taking all or a percentage of their pension but continues on the same contract in the current role. The Member speaks with the Manager of the Department who will be able to discuss options with the member and agree an arrangement that works for both the member and the employer.  The member must return with a reduction of pensionable pay by at least 10% and no break is required.

The pensionable pay must stay at the reduced level for at least 12 months after you take partial retirement, or you’ll no longer be eligible for the pension you’ve taken. During this period, you may still be able to do additional work that doesn’t count towards your pension, such as overtime or bank work but it is the responsibility of the member to opt out of the pension scheme on any additional bank work done. Please click here for further details.

Note: Managers  must not terminate the post on ESR for partial retirements or draw downs. Once agreed the member is eligible to reduce their pensionable pay please amend hours or pay via ESR.

For more information please call 0121 507 6655 option 3 (lines open from 10am – 4pm, Monday – Friday).