Board response to the Access and Protections consultation

The Board welcomes the government’s part response to the Access and Protections consultation, specifically relating to restoring access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) for elected members and extending it to mayors. The Board supported this proposal in its own consultation response, recognising both the important public service these roles fulfil and the significant responsibilities they now carry. The Board also welcomes the decision to bring England in line with the established arrangements in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, helping ensure consistency and fairness for elected members across the UK.

In addition, the Board notes the government’s pragmatic intention to introduce these changes from May 2026. It should also be acknowledged that administering authorities are already preparing for substantial reforms under the Fit for the Future programme, due to take effect from April 2026. The Board would encourage the government to provide clarity as soon as possible on its position regarding the remaining elements of the consultation covering Normal Minimum Pension Age, academies in the LGPS, and the introduction of a new Fair Deal so that administering authorities and employers can prepare effectively for the full scope of regulatory change.