Absence From Work
A member may be absent for some time due to pregnancy or illness. It is important that you notify The Pensions Trust in either case.
Maternity Leave
During paid maternity leave, contributions should be deducted at the usual percentage but on actual pay only. The employer pays the usual (pre-maternity leave) contribution plus any shortfall in the member's contribution.
When maternity leave (in excess of 39 weeks) is unpaid, pensionable service and any contributions will stop until the member returns to work. On the member's return to work she has the option to pay any missed contributions, in which case the employer must also pay its share. Alternatively, if missed contributions are not paid, a break in pensionable service will be recorded.
Temporary Absence
If the member continues to receive pay during absence the employer and the member continue to pay contributions based on the actual salary paid for as long as the member remains on full or reduced pay. A member may request that contributions continue at the full normal rate.
When the member returns to work, you will need to clarify whether they wish to exercise the option to pay arrears of contributions. If the member pays, then the employer must also pay. If the member chooses not pay arrears, this period shall be treated as a break in pensionable service and will not count towards the member's pension.