Support

Training Manual

The package includes a training and reference manual, fully updated and re-written in April 2010. It contains instructions on procedures, practical examples and calculations. It is has been designed to assist in the day to day administration of the NHS Pension Scheme.

The NHS Pension Scheme seems to be constantly under review. This means that your training manual can become out of date quite quickly. Being a member of the support service ensures that your manual is kept up to date with the latest legislation and regulations.

Pensions In Practice

Periodically, news bulletins will be issued to explain the content of NHS Pensions Technical releases. Other aspects of general pensions interest will be covered such as legislation changes. Items in NHS Pensions Technical News letters relevant for GP Practices will be highlighted and additional information supplied when appropriate.

Staff Newsletters

To assist Practice Managers in keeping their own staff informed of NHS Pension Scheme developments, special summary sheets will be produced to issue to staff.

Training

For group membership of the Support Service some free training time is included. Generally this will be an annual Pensions Update but there are also a variety of courses on offer which include:

• All you need to know (2 days)
• Getting to Grips with NHS Pension Scheme Administration (1 day)
• Getting the Most out of Pensions Online (½ day)
• Practical Workshops (½ or 1 day)
• Retirements & Pensionable Pay Calculations (½ day)
• Presentations to Staff (2½ hours)
• Pensions Updates (½ day)

Special rates will be available to Groups who specifically request additional training above their quota

Helpline

This is open to all members participating in the support service, either by telephone, fax or e-mail. Members can ask for help on any aspect of the Scheme, or assistance with checking of figures for retirements etc. In addition to the NHS Pension Scheme issues, the helpline will also be able to deal with any payroll related issues.

Membership

This is by annual subscription for an individual practice or for group membership via a PCT or Local Practice Managers' Group. Practices who join as individuals will be entitled to all the benefits of Group membership excluding training time. The arrangements for Group Membership are set out below

The membership cost for practices who are members of a group is based on a sliding scale with the larger groups paying less per practice. Rates for group membership can be adjusted to exclude the training element which can be commissioned separately. We think that the best deal for practices is the all inclusive option.

Apply for individual membership

Costs for individual practices for 2011/12 is £118.00 + VAT per annum