Not all employers offer occupational pension schemes, though as of 1 October 2012 employees will be enrolled into some form of occupatioal scheme by default if they are over 22 and earning more than £5000.
Where a scheme exists employers are required to include details, or where to find them, in the written statement of particulars, which must be issued to employees within 8 weeks of starting work.
Occupational pensions are normally calculated according to the amount of earnings, less overtime and allowances (such as expenses) in the last 12 months of service. The precise details will depend on the type of pension scheme your employer operates.
You can also make enquiries to the employee representative(s) appointed in your company for further details.
All employers employing more than 5 employees must offer a stakeholder pension, but there is no obligation on employers to contribute to your pension.
