Life's big changes

We all know that life doesn't always go to plan — and a change of circumstances at work or home can have a big impact on your finances.

​Here are some examples of life changes to help you understand how they may affect your pension contributions and benefits. Login to find out more in your pension guide.

Taking leave

If you get maternity, paternity, additional paternity, additional paternity, family or adoption leave pay, your contributions are based on what you are earning at that time, but your benefits are based on your normal rate of pay. Read more in​ the ​ a guide for members on family leave. 

Ill-health

It's comforting to know that support may be available from the Fund if you have to retire due to ill health. Broadly speaking, you may be able to apply for an incapacity pension, subject to meeting certain conditions. Read more details in the Guide to Incapacity Benefits.

Divorce or dissolution

The breakdown of a relationship is a difficult time​. If you face divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership, your pension is likely to be considered along with your other assets when financial settlements are worked out. 

A court order ​may be made to transfer part of the value of your pension benefits during the divorce or dissolution proceedings.

If this is the case, it would mean your Fund benefits will be reduced to provide benefits for your ex-spouse or ex-civil partner.

For more information about divorce and your pension please check the Read as You Need guide on divorce and dissolution. It includes details on: 

• Pension sharing orders and pension attachment orders
• Getting a CETV (Cash Equivalent Transfer Value)
• How your benefits are affected
• Administration charges