Local elected officials across England are now eligible to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), following the introduction of new regulations that expand pension access to councillors, mayors, deputy mayors, and London Assembly members for the first time.
The policy shift follows a consultation process backed by detailed actuarial modelling from the Government Actuary’s Department (GAD), which assessed the financial implications of widening membership.
Actuarial Analysis Shapes Policy Decision
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) worked closely with GAD throughout the development of the change.
The department provided technical pension expertise, including projections of the likely additional annual cost associated with extending LGPS eligibility to elected members.
That analysis played a central role in informing the consultation process and supporting decision-makers as they evaluated different policy options.
Officials say the work ensured the change was grounded in evidence, particularly around long-term affordability and scheme sustainability.
Expansion Aligns England with Other UK Nations
With the new rules now in force, England joins Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, where elected members have long had access to the LGPS.
The updated regulations took effect on the first Monday after the most recent local elections.
From that point onward, service carried out by eligible councillors and other elected officials is considered pensionable under the scheme.
However, participation is not automatic.
Membership operates on an opt-in basis, meaning elected members must actively choose to join, placing greater emphasis on clear communication about eligibility and benefits.
Stronger Role for GAD in Pension Reform
GAD’s involvement reflects its ongoing role in advising government bodies on pension-related reforms, particularly where changes affect eligibility, benefits, or long-term financial commitments.
The department regularly supports policy teams in evaluating how proposed reforms may impact public sector pension costs and risk exposure, helping ensure that decisions are based on robust modelling and evidence.
Government and Actuaries Highlight Impact
Will King, Co-Head of Pensions at MHCLG, said the reform reflects how elected officials are viewed within the public service framework.
He stated: “This change in eligibility reflects the government’s position that elected leaders in England are dedicated public servants.
Analysis from GAD helped underpin the change, with clear evidence on the costs.”
GAD actuary Garth Foster, who led the analytical work, also highlighted the department’s advisory role in shaping policy outcomes.
He said: “GAD’s actuarial expertise can help government departments, trustees, employers, and other stakeholders working through policy options.
“We help policy teams determine evidence-based decisions by giving them a deeper understanding of cost and risk implications.”
Continued Support and Contact for Policy Teams
With the regulations now implemented, the analytical groundwork provided by GAD has translated into a practical change in public sector pension access for elected officials.
GAD has also indicated it remains available to support other organisations exploring similar reforms, particularly in areas involving scheme design, eligibility changes, and financial modelling of pension systems.
For further engagement, enquiries can be directed to enquiries@gad.gov.uk.
