In October 2022, the member contribution structure changed from being based on notional whole time pay to actual pay.
A detailed payroll provider document was released at the time explaining the changes, providing examples of how different scenarios should be pensioned under the changes.
The consultation clarifies how members’ contribution rates should be calculated when they are in receipt of less pay than they usually would be, due to certain types of authorised absences.
If a member goes on reduced pay (for example, due to half pay sick leave, half pay or statuary maternity leave or paternity leave) the members contribution rate should be reassessed to reflect the reduction in actual pensionable pay received.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) confirmed that if this approach was not put into place on 1 October 2022, then the changes need to be backdated to that date and affected records amended.
Please note these changes were detailed in the original payroll provider document released in October 2022. The consultation just clarified the method, and is available here: Government response to NHS Pension Scheme: proposed amendments for April 2025 - GOV.UK