Councillors can join the LGPS from 11 May 2026
The government has confirmed that councillors and elected mayors in England will be able to elect to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) from 11 May 2026.
Councillors could join the LGPS before April 2014, but this option was removed following changes to the scheme. From May 2026, councillors from the 10 principal local authorities in Derbyshire will once again be able to choose to join the LGPS.
This change is part of the government's access and protection improvements to the scheme. It will become law when the Local Government Pension Scheme (Amendment) (Elected Member Pensions) Regulations 2026 come into force on 11 May 2026.
A leaflet providing information for councillors who wish to consider joining the scheme is attached to this page.
Joining the LGPS will not be automatic. Councillors who want to join must opt in by completing the Elected Members pension option form and sending it to the council (or Fire and Rescue Authority) where they serve as a councillor. The form is also attached to this page.
After completing the opt-in form and returning this to the relevant authority, you will be enrolled into the LGPS with effect from the next pay period. For example, if you make an election to join on 11 May 2026 (the date in which the new regulations become effective), you will be enrolled into the LGPS from 1 June 2026.
We are currently working on a new page on our website which will provide more information for councillors about joining the LGPS.
Councillors who join the scheme will receive pension benefits that are broadly similar to those available to other LGPS members.
Please note that town and parish councillors are not eligible to join the LGPS.
Links to useful documents