Pension and retirement

Local government pension scheme

Whether you're taking the very first steps in planning for retirement, you want to find out more about your existing pension, or you're looking for ways to top up your pension, this site puts all the necessary information at your fingertips. The pension scheme is a final-salary scheme, based on 1/80th of pensionable service, times your last year's average pay. In addition to this you are also entitled to a free lump sum payment payable on retirement which is generally the equivalent of three years' pension. If you die there is a death gratuity payable amounting to twice your pensionable pay; you may nominate a beneficiary or beneficiaries to whom you wish this amount payable. Pension benefits are payable on your death to a surviving spouse and any dependant children, including those who are over 17 and are in continuous full-time education. To join the scheme a deduction of 6% is made from your monthly salary and you will pay lower NI and tax contributions as a result. SQA contributes 15% of each member's salary.

• www.spfo.org.uk

Pre-retirement training

SQA works in conjunction with the Scottish Pre-Retirement Council (SPRC) to provide training and support for staff nearing retirement. The SPRC offers a range of seminars, training and online information to help staff in their retirement. The SPRC is an independent counselling service with no links to any other financial services organisations.

• www.sprc.org.uk