NHS Pension Scheme (PO-3788)

Subject

Mr Bent is making an application on behalf of the executors of the estate. Mr Bent complains that NHS Pensions and BCUHB incorrectly paid the death gratuity payable in respect of a deceased former member of the Scheme, Miss Brenda Davies, to Miss Davies’ long-term partner, Mr J. Mr Bent complains that the death gratuity should have been paid to Miss Davies’ estate.

The Pensions Ombudsman’s determination and short reasons

The complaint should be upheld against NHS Pensions because they provided misleading information.

The complaint should not be upheld against BCUHB because, although they misled Miss Davies, that was because they relied on the information provided by NHS Pensions.