Pension Schemes

At Northumbria, we are proud to have some of the best pay and conditions in the sector, and we understand that planning for your financial future is key. We offer access to four pension schemes, each designed to support different colleague groups and career stages. Whether you're just starting out, mid-career, or approaching retirement, our schemes provide valuable benefits including employer contributions, retirement income, and protection for you and your family.

The links below provide a clear overview of each scheme, helping you understand your options and make informed decisions. You’ll also find links to resources, calculators, and support to guide you through every stage of your pension journey.

Academic Colleagues (Grades 6-9)

Academic colleagues in Grades 6 to 9 can choose between two high-quality Defined Benefit (DB) schemes:

Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS)
Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

Both schemes offer generous accrual rates, inflation protection, and options for early retirement and additional contributions.

Professional Support Colleagues (Grade 6 and above, or with service before 2017)

Professional Services colleagues in Grade 6 and above, or those with continuous service prior to 2017, can choose between two high-quality Defined Benefit (DB) schemes:

Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

Both schemes offer generous accrual rates, inflation protection, and options for early retirement and additional contributions.

All Colleagues - Universities and Colleges Retirement Savings Scheme (UCRSS)

UCRSS is a Defined Contribution (DC) scheme open to all colleagues, including those not eligible for the above schemes. It offers flexibility in how you save and invest for retirement, with contributions from both you and the University. You can manage your account online and tailor your investment choices to suit your goals.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about Pensions at Northumbria, please contact the Payroll team (Northumbria login required), who will be happy to assist you.