I refer to your request under the Freedom of Information Act, which I received on 2 July 2023 for information about the following:

How many other ex employees are in the same position as I was being totally unaware as I was and thinking their contributions would lead to a pension payout at the time of retirement

Response

Please be advised that the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) does not hold the requested information. We could provide figures for the number of people who would be entitled to a refund because they were members of the NHS Pension scheme for less than two years, but have not received it. If you’d be interested in these figures, please submit a new FOI request.

In support of the administration of the Scheme, Employers are required to provide employees joining the Scheme with the relevant Scheme Guide:

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/2015%20Members%20Guide%20%28V11%29%2007.2021.pdf

They are also required to provide those leaving the Scheme with a Leaving Early and Transferring Out Guide:

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/2018-11/Leaving%20Early%20and%20Transferring%20Out%20Guide%20%28V16%29%20-%2011.2018.pdf

This is in accordance with the Employer Charter. Page 8 refers to New Starters (joiners) and Page 14 to Scheme Leavers:

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/sites/default/files/2018-02/Employers%20Charter%20%28V8%29%2002.2018.pdf

Other sources of help are available to members in respect of their entitlement after leaving the Scheme which can be accessed via our website:

https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/member-hub/leaving-or-taking-break-scheme