TPO to expand its network of volunteer advisers

Today marks the start of the annual week-long celebration of the contribution made by volunteers across the UK. The Pensions Ombudsman has a network of around 200 pension professionals who generously give their time and expertise to resolve disputes. Last year they helped TPO’s Early Resolution Service to close 1,390 cases.

Pensions Ombudsman Dominic Harris said:

“The work of our volunteer advisers is vital. Without their help and dedication, we would not be able to resolve as many disputes or help as many of our customers. 

In return for your time and expertise, we offer an opportunity to broaden your pensions knowledge and make a real difference to people’s lives. We provide free training, networking opportunities and access to a TPO web-based adviser site full of guidance and technical resources. If you’re interested in joining us, we’d love to hear from you.

Our volunteer advisers come from a myriad of professions, including scheme managers, administrators, consultants, actuaries, trustees and lawyers. Last year, we were delighted to have welcomed 29 new volunteers to the team. But we are always on the lookout for new recruits, particularly as demand for our service continues to increase.

Finally, I would like to thank all our existing volunteers for their help, dedication, and willingness to share their expertise and knowledge.”

Potential TPO volunteers need to have 10 years’ pensions experience or 5 years’ experience with a pensions qualification. The work is varied, covering different types of cases such as mistakes, delays and ill-health benefits or we can allocate cases based on specialisms. The time commitment should not be onerous as volunteers can take on as many or as few cases as they have capacity for.

You can find out more about volunteering at TPO online, including the role description and application form. You can also contact TPO’s Network Manager Paul Day at  paul.day@pensions-ombudsman.org.uk.