The Government has confirmed that from 11 May 2026, councillors and mayors (referred to as ‘elected members’) in England will be able to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
Between 1 April 2014 and 10 May 2026, councillors in England could not join the LGPS and those who were already members of the Scheme on 31 March 2014 could remain in the LGPS until the end of their term of office. However, councillors were not allowed to re-join the scheme in any subsequent term of office. You can find out more information on the pre-April 2014 rules for councillors on the LGPS website.
Are you eligible to join?
This extended membership gives access to the following elected members who are under age 75:
- All mayors and deputy mayors in England
- All councillors at principal councils in England
- All London Assembly members
Please note: Town and Parish councillors are not eligible for membership.
How to join the LGPS
If you are an eligible elected member, it will be for you to decide whether or not to opt to join the Scheme. If you choose to do so, you will need to complete and return the Opt-in form to your relevant authority. Once the form is received, you will become a member of the LGPS from the first day of the next pay period following the application. We will set up your pension record and write to confirm that you are a member of the Scheme.
If you receive an allowance or salary from more than one authority and want pension benefits from each role, you must complete a separate Opt-in form for each authority.
For more information about the LGPS for councillors and mayors, please visit the LGPS website. We will provide updates and more information as and when it becomes available.
