Ill health retirement

[LucyLaundry]

Good morning everyone

Following a VF arrest a few months ago I was advised I may be able to access my NHS pension early without any reduction. I’m due to get it in 20 months anyway. The arrest was a life changing moment and unfortunately the medics don’t know what actually caused it. I was diagnosed with severe left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 24%. Heart Failure Consultant doesn’t know if this will improve and I’ve been told I need to wait for 3 months before I can get retested

Unfortunately my GP sent my form back to the Pension Agency without giving me the opportunity to gather evidence from other Health professionals and my application has been rejected

There is an appeal process which I’m looking into, anyone been in a similar position?

I’m seeing my Cardiologist next month but was wondering if anyone else had any advice?

Many thanks

[Shar28]

Hi, your HR function or union should be able to advise. Good luck!

[LucyLaundry in reply to Shar28]

Thank you Shar28

[Hidden]

Hi, Can I ask if you're still employed, as it does make a difference?

I'm in a similar Pension Scheme (Local Government). I went for Ill Health Retirement last year and it was straightforward for me, however, I had reports from Occupational Health and my Employers agreed that I wasn't fit to work. Someone with more knowledge may be more up to speed with it, but, it was my understanding that it's basically the Employers 'gift' to make it happen and the Pension Company just rubber stamps it. If they hadn't all been in agreement I was going to have to take the reduced pension.

Check the Pension Scheme rules, before you appeal and get as much as assistance as you can, having others on your side helps.

Good luck.

[LucyLaundry in reply to Hidden]

Hello Heedio

Thanks for the reply, I would be classed as self employed. I’ve approached Occ Health but have been told that they can’t help me as I’m not an employee, rules are rules🤦