NHS pension advice

Since the 1 April 2022, all NHS pension scheme members save into the 2015 ‘career average’ scheme, a form of defined benefit pension. When you take your pension, you’re guaranteed a defined amount, based on your pensionable pay throughout your career.

If you're a member of the 1995/2008 NHS scheme, you'll potentially keep any service earned before 1st April 2022 in that scheme and be able to access these benefits in the same way and at the same time as you can now, be that age 55 for those with Special Class or MHO Status, 60 for the 1995 Section or age 65 with the 2008 Section.

When you're ready to retire, you'll need to apply for your NHS pension. There are different types of retirement; reaching normal pension age; taking early retirement; being made redundant; or retiring due to ill health. These can affect your entitlement. There are also different benefits, depending on which NHS pension scheme you're in and the type of role you hold. Our pension experts can explain what will happen in your individual case.

It is possible to consider partial retirement within all three schemes. This potentially gives access to your pension, without the need to retire, allowing consultants to retain their substantive role and awards, whilst receiving pension benefits. GPs are able to access benefits on a similar basis, and in the case of single-handed practices, this is particularly beneficial.

Returning to NHS employment after retiring? You’re able to rejoin the 2015 pension. This was already available to members of the 2008 and 2015 schemes, and from 1 April 2023 extended to retired members in the 1995 scheme.

This applies even if you have 45 years of service, as long as you’re under age 75. You can work as many hours as you choose. You just need to have had a minimum break of 24 hours from your previous job when you retired, although you can take a longer break if you prefer.