NHS Pension Scheme (PO-2519)

Complaint summary

Dr Crawford’s complaint is that she was:

1. mis-sold an added years contract that matures beyond her normal pension age; and
2. given misleading and unclear information concerning her added years contract.

Summary of the Ombudsman’s determination and reasons

Dr Crawford’s first complaint should not be upheld against NHS Pensions because it was Dr Crawford’s choice to take out the contract to age 65 rather than 60. And prior to taking out the contract, Dr Crawford was supplied with sufficient information to enable her understand the nature of the added year’s contract, and the implications of her choice.

Dr Crawford’s second complaint should be partly upheld against NHS Pensions, because she was supplied with incorrect information about arrears of added year’s contributions; and, prior to making a complaint, Dr Crawford was unable to obtain information about the value of added years she had accrued.