LGPS now open to councillors and mayors
Author: LAPF Investments | Published: June 3, 2026
The LGPS is now officially open to local councillors and mayors following a consultation supported by analysis from the Government Actuary’s Department (GAD).
Its analysis of the policy – which also sees membership of the LGPS extended to councillors, mayors, deputy mayors and London Assembly members in England for the first time – included modelling the likely additional annual cost of extending scheme access.
The new rules took effect on the first Monday following the May local elections, with membership being on an opt-in basis – placing particular importance on clear communication to elected members about their options.
Will King, co-head of pensions at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, said: “This change in eligibility reflects the government’s position that elected leaders in England are dedicated public servants. Analysis from GAD helped underpin the change, with clear evidence on the costs.”
GAD actuary Garth Foster, who led on the work, added: “GAD’s actuarial expertise can help government departments, trustees, employers, and other stakeholders working through policy options. We help policy teams determine evidence-based decisions by giving them a deeper understanding of the cost and risk implications.”
