The Universities Superannuation Scheme (PO-20908)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

Miss N’s complaint against the USS Trustee and the University is partly upheld in respect of the University but not the USS Trustee; however, there is a part of the complaint I do not agree with. To put matters right for the part that is upheld, the University shall pay Miss N £500 in respect of significant distress, including loss of opportunity and loss of expectation.

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

Complaint summary

Miss N’s complaint is that her employer, the University, failed to promptly inform the Trustee of the Oxford Staff Pension Scheme (OSPS) that she had left OSPS-linked service. As a result, she was denied the opportunity to transfer her OSPS benefits to the USS, while she was still a member of the USS. This has caused her, and will cause her, various losses, including distress and inconvenience.