From 11th May 2026 all elected councillors and mayors in England are eligible to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
This change means all mayors and deputy mayors of combined authorities, together with councillors of all principal local authorities will be eligible to opt-in to the scheme. The new provision forms part of the government’s ‘access and protections’ improvements.
How prospective new members can join the scheme
Membership will not be automatic, individuals need to actively complete an opt-in form and return it to the authority they serve. Employing authorities must share the relevant information with prospective new members.
Information to share with prospective new members
What employing authorities need to know
Who is eligible?
- The mayor and deputy mayor of the West of England Combined Authority.
- Elected councillors from the four unitary councils: Bristol City, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath and North East Somerset Council.
We have created a detailed update, providing more information on the new scheme and what employing authorities need to know. This includes guidance on eligibility and pay (with an updated definition of pensionable pay).
We have also explained what implications special allowances that are paid by different authorities have on membership.
Read the detailed councillor scheme guidance
Payroll guidance
Employers will need to create a separate i-Connect extract to onboard elected members.