I recently found out that after 42 years of nursing, I have years of underpaid NHS pension contributions and an upsettingly low pension prediction. Therefore I felt compelled to dedicate this editorial to my pension ignorance, in the hope that you are, or become, more pension savvy! I enrolled in the NHS pension in 1978 and continued until the birth of my son in 1983. I reduced my hours, continued to work in my local hospital, took my superannuation, and opted out the NHS pension scheme. First mistake.
I became a general practice nurse (GPN) in early 1997, and yes, in 1997 we were eventually allowed to join what is known as the 1995 NHS pension scheme, which allows us to retire at 60 and pays a final salary pension until we die. However, our final salary pension pay is also based on the number of days we were part of the scheme. Unfortunately, my GP employer had neglected to add me until October 1998. And I had failed to check. Second mistake.
My next GP employer had paid my pension, as stated on my wage slips (which I can only find one of now). However, this was not the case, as the pension office do not have details of me working there. Yes, you can see a pattern forming – I was too trusting. Third mistake. Both GPs have since died and their practices have disbanded.
I continued to work as a GPN/advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) from 30 to 36 hours a week: three 12-hour shifts. The pension office has this down as part-time work. Fourth mistake.
After challenging my then practice manager, it was clear there is a need for practice managers to have a pension workshop and robust human resource support. Alongside my GPN/ANP role, I worked at my local CCG as Clinical Director. I was informed that as a nurse I am not entitled to NHS pension; however, my GP colleagues were. This time I did challenge, but then let it go! Fifth mistake.
If someone had taken the time to explain the long-term benefits of the NHS pension scheme; if we had robust, easy access to primary care HR services; if all our practice managers had improved understanding of the complexities of pensions through pension training: I may be in a different financial situation now and I am sure we could all look forward to the NHS pension that we deserve.
We talk about inequity for our practice/PCN populations; however, we do not address the continued inequities between trust employed nurses and non-NHS employed nurses, even though we are providing NHS services to our populations.
After attending GPN pension workshops with Gill Rogers and Jan Harley-Doyle, I feel more informed and better equipped to challenge. And lastly, remember: please do not take your pension until you have discussed this with a pension advisor!
What are your thoughts on pensions? We would love to hear from you at pn@markallengroup.com
‘Practice Nursing provides nurses working in general practice with the tools to reach their full potential and deliver the best possible care to their patients. Our monthly journal informs and inspires by providing up-to-date, evidence-based clinical articles, highlighting key professional issues and promoting the latest research in general practice.’