Meet the team: Shaun Tetley spotlights Portsmouth's Local Government Pension Scheme

Shaun Tetley has played a pivotal role in embedding the Local Government Pension Scheme within Portsmouth City Council.

Having managed the scheme at Portsmouth for several years, he has remained a committed advocate to driving up pension engagement and pension awareness to ensure staff understand its long-term value.

Stronger Futures is recognising the value of pensions during National Pension Awareness Week, challenging people to plan for retirement sooner rather than later.

Shaun has focused on raising awareness among employees, both new and long-serving, about the benefits of the scheme.

"Portsmouth City Council's scheme is one of the key benefits of working for the council. We contribute 17.8% towards your future, making it a valuable tool for your retirement. You are unlikely to find an equivalent return on something, with the same low level of risk elsewhere. Do not opt out of the pension scheme, you will regret this later in life."

While social workers who join the council in specific teams benefit from a market supplement payment of up to £3,000 and relocation support of up to £8,000, the pension is another benefit that sets us apart from other organisations.  

"The local government pension scheme is a key differentiator in the sector as it offers security and stability. The benefits you build up in the scheme are guaranteed. What you receive is specified by the scheme regulations rather than the value of your investment in the financial markets." 

Shaun sees the scheme as a key differentiator in the public sector, offering financial security and stability that few other employers can match.

Saving for retirement should be an enjoyable experience that allows you to plan for later life. However, Shaun highlights even the smallest contributions help towards building a stable future.  

"The pension scheme provides flexibility depending on your circumstances. The key message is do not opt out. If finances are challenging, you can join the LGPS 50% section where you pay half the normal contributions. The amount you pay is based on your salary. For social workers, this will range between 5.5% and 12.5%."

In the UK, it is estimated that 43%* of the working age population are under saving for retirement which is around 14.6 million people.

National Pension Awareness Week is part of a wider initiative to improve understanding around saving for later life and the importance of increasing contributions during your working years.

Shaun emphasises the value of early planning and being informed about what’s needed to achieve a financially comfortable retirement.

"It can be a challenge to navigate pensions when there is so much information out there. We empower colleagues to begin thinking about their pensions as soon as they join the council through workshops and online sessions.

"Many leave the session with a good idea of what they need to retire and can begin to make plans that will lead to a more a comfortable lifestyle."

Apart from the key benefits of the main scheme, staff can join the councils most popular financial well-being AVC scheme which allows you to save a retirement tax free lump sum with a savings rate of nearly 39% on every £1 saved.

This reflects the council’s commitment to offering a competitive and financially secure employment package.

Supporting your journey into retirement

Portsmouth City Council is a destination employer for qualified and experienced social workers seeking long-term career stability and a secure retirement.

Our sector-leading pension contribution offers peace of mind, supporting you throughout your career and into later life.

With newly developed career progression pathways and an enhanced health and wellbeing offer, there has never been a better time to join our team.

Learn more about the Local Government Pension Scheme and how it supports your future.

Find out more