Stream: Learning through unions

Introduction to Pensions online

The combination of the financial crisis, related threats to pensions schemes and changes being introduced by the Government have pushed pensions higher up everyone’s agenda than ever before. The need for advice and guidance on pensions has never been so important. Providing up-to- date knowledge and information on pensions is essential.

This course trains reps who will be active in their workplaces in helping colleagues understand the different aspects of pensions, how much they are likely to get in retirement and what they can do to improve their situation.

Introduction to Pensions Online will give you access to high-quality, engaging materials, specialist tutoring and support.

If you are a member of an occupational pension scheme, you will need two copies of your pension scheme booklet (members booklet), one for youself and the other for the course tutor. If you are not a member of such a scheme, please inform the tutor at the start of the course.

Who is this course for?

This short online course is for trade union representatives who wish to gain a better understanding of the pensions issues and enable them to provide advice and guidance to members.

When does the course start?

January 2012

How long is the course?

The online course is designed to take 18 hours. The course is divided into four sections, each of which will take around 4½ hours to complete.

What will the course help me to do?

This course is specifically designed to provide participants with a greater understanding of the complex issues surrounding occupational pensions.

The course will help you understand:

  • Sources of income and retirement
  • Comparing and contrasting pensions options
  • Pensions calculations
  • Understanding your own scheme

Can I get time off to learn?

Union representatives who wish to attend TUC courses in working time should first ask their employer for time off with pay. The Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations 1977 give accredited union and safety representatives a legal right to reasonable time off with pay to attend courses approved by the TUC or their union. Guidance towards establishing what constitutes reasonable time off can be found in the ACAS Code of Practice (http://www.acas.org.uk/media/pdf/l/q/CP03_1.pdf).

Representatives who find difficulty in obtaining paid time off to attend TUC courses should seek assistance from their senior union representative or full time union officer.

Can I get time off for online courses?

Online learning* should not be seen as an alternative to paid release from work. The law still applies, whether learning takes place away from work or in work, at a workstation or in a company learning centre.

How much is the course?

This course is free for all recognised union reps from TUC member unions.

Further Information

If you require any further information about this course, please contact: TUC Education Online e: tuceducationhelp@tuc.org.uk t: 020 7079 6929

How do I apply?

If you are interested in this course, please use the link below.

Proceed to online application form

Briefing document (600 words) issued 2 May 2006

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unionlearn
Congress House
Great Russell Street
London WC1B 3LS

Telephone 020 7079 6920
Fax 020 7079 6921
Email ulweb@tuc.org.uk

This page http://www.unionlearn.org.uk/education/learn-593-f0.cfm
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