PENSION
I would like some help and advice regarding my current NHS pension and the pros/cons of transferring to a LA pension. Or likewise remaining in the NHS pension.
The Trust has liaised with Oldham Council regarding the pension options open to transferring staff. They have responded to advise that as they are able to provide staff with access to the NHS Pension Scheme this will be the only option available. The Local Authority pension scheme will not be available for staff.
Pension provision is not covered by the TUPE regulations. The only requirement is that the new organisation must provide a reasonable alternative scheme and match your contributions up to a maximum of 6%. As the Council can provide you with access to your current pension scheme they have met this requirement.
Will I be able to claim back the pension that I have paid into the NHS Pension Scheme?
You may be able to have a refund of your contributions if your total membership in the NHS Pension Scheme is less than two years. The two years includes any qualifying membership. Further advice is on available the NHSBSA website
TRAINING
I am currently undertaking the second module of an apprenticeship degree which is due to finish in 2023. Will this continue?
If staff are undertaking any ongoing training please let us know.
LEASE CARS
Please can you provide information regarding those of us who have an existing Bridgewater lease car prior to the transfer to NCA and if this contract will transfer to NCA lease car company.
All staff with lease cars have now been contacted and arrangements are being made to transfer the vehicles subject to agreement of revised terms.
SALARY SACRIFICE SCHEME VIA VIVUP
Will salary sacrifice schemes via VIVUP transfer?
All Salary sacrifice schemes (with the exception of salary sacrifice lease cars) will cease on transfer. Staff will be expected to pay any outstanding balance by this date. Where this will cause undue financial difficulty, staff are urged to speak to Gareth Pugh, Assistant Director of Finance to agree a repayment plan.
ESR ACCESS
Will staff be able to access ESR after transfer?
You will not be able to access payslips and P60s for your time with Bridgewater once you transfer. It is recommended that you download payslips and P60s and retain these personally. Staff transferring to NCA will have access to ESR and their Total Reward Statement. Staff transferring to the Council will have access to ‘My HR’. The Council are to clarify how staff will access the TRS.
INDUCTION
What will be the induction arrangements on moving to NCA and the Council?
The Council and NCA are in the process of finalising the arrangements for inductions and mandatory training requirements. The Trust will provide details on your mandatory training compliance to NCA and the Council.
ANNUAL LEAVE
Will staff still be entitled to an increase in leave, relevant to NHS Service after transfer to the Council?
Your terms and conditions are protected and therefore you will retain this entitlement.
PAY INCREMENTS
Will pay increments be maintained for staff moving over the Council?
Pay increments will be retained. Annual Pay awards will come in line with Council awards.
BENEFITS
Will staff have access to NHS Discounts if they transfer to the Council?
This is unlikely. Staff will not be able to access the Blue Light Card either however there are benefits available via the VIVUP platform
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Will staff move over with existing devices or have new equipment from NCA/Council?
Staff will transfer with existing electronic devices.
LINE MANGERS
Who will be my line manager after I transfer?
Line management arrangements will initially remain the same.