Have you ever noticed how fast certain information can fly around an office, like the fact that Jo in accounts has a new car or Simon in HR has a new dog! But when it comes to information you want people to know about, generating that same level of interest isn’t easy. However when it comes to communicating information around your company pension scheme, encouraging employee engagement is essential. And remember it’s not just your employees you need to communicate with…

It’s good to talk…

Of course your first obligation is to your employees. By rights you should provide your workers with information on the scheme in writing to help them make informed decisions about workplace pensions. Ensure this communication takes place within a prescribed timescale, and make sure it explains:

• They have been (or will be) automatically enrolled into a pension scheme
• They have the right to opt-out, and the right to opt back in;
• the scheme into which they will be automatically enrolled providing all the necessary information

Don’t forget you are also required to provide employees who aren’t eligible for the scheme with information about their right to opt-in, and entitled workers with information about joining the pension scheme, and what this means for them. There is a list of mandatory information that must be communicated to your workers, which can be found here . The list is extensive; however the Regulator’s guidance does provide letter templates and further details on exactly what information must be provided and by when. It’s always good to check specifics so you don’t miss any essential steps.

You will also need to communicate with your chosen pension provider. For every individual who is being automatically enrolled, you will need to ensure you have given your pension provider the required information they need to enable them to enrol the individual. This will include details such as their name, gender, date of birth, residential address, automatic enrolment date, and National Insurance number.

It is also essential to engage your payroll communications or provider into the process. To make your journey to Auto Enrolment compliance as smooth as possible it is vital to engage with all the appropriate stakeholders to ensure not only employer duties are met but employee engagement is achieved along the way.

If you could benefit from monthly tips as you begin your countdown to enrolment why not subscribe here. Alternatively if you are looking for support then Jelf can work with you to develop and implement a communications strategy that is suited to your organisation and employees. We can develop bespoke communications and help you to deliver these in the most appropriate way for your employees. Why not get in touch with our dedicated Jelf Employee Benefit Auto Enrolment team via 03333 057078.

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