Reduce my pension contribution - Join the 50/50 scheme

The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) offers the option to pay lower contributions for a short time when finances are tight. When you first join the scheme you will contribute to the main section of the scheme, during which time you will build up full pension. If you elect to move to the 50/50 section of the scheme, you will pay half your normal contributions, but you will only be building up half the normal pension. Regardless of the section you are in, you will get full life assurance cover.

As the 50/50 section is designed as a short-term choice for when times are tough financially, your election will be cancelled approximately every 3 years in which case you would then start to pay full contributions and build up full benefits. Your employer will confirm when this will take place. You may then, if you wish, elect again to move to the 50/50 section