NHS Pension Scheme (PO-15248)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

Ms S’ complaint against NHSBSA and Sussex is partly upheld, but there is a part of the complaint I do not agree with. To put matters right for the part that is upheld Sussex should, within 14 days of the date of this Determination, pay Ms S £1,000 for the significant maladministration identified.

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

Complaint summary

Ms S has complained that she was provided with incorrect retirement information, on which she based her decision to claim payment of her accrued pension benefits.

Ms S has further complained that, although NHS BSA have agreed to “cancel” her early retirement award, she will need to repay the pension benefits she has already received. Ms S says this will in effect place her in a “disadvantageous position” as she has already spent the majority of the pension benefits and it cannot therefore be considered fair redress.