BT Pension Scheme (PO-7193)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

I do not uphold Mr N’s complaint and no further action is required by BT.

My reasons for reaching this decision are explained in more detail below.

Complaint summary

Mr N is unhappy because both BTPSML and BT have refused to grant him an enhanced level Ill Health Early Retirement (IHER). His application was refused by BT and, whilst it was accepted by BTPSML, he was only granted a standard level IHER and it was not backdated to his original application date with BT.

Mr N has also complained that he has not received the value of his shares under BT’s Saveshare scheme.

For clarity, there are two respondents in this case. BT is Mr N’s employer and considered his initial IHER application. BTPSML acts on behalf of the Trustee of the Scheme, and considered Mr N’s later IHER application.