Pensions Regulator blogs on trustees’ role in improving pensions adequacy for DC savers

The Regulator has published a blog on pensions adequacy and the challenges facing DC pension savers. It highlights recent research by the DWP showing that the “emerging norm” is that many people struggle to prepare for retirement.

In the blog, trustees are asked to consider their decumulation strategies to deliver better retirement outcomes. Three steps for trustees to take to address the challenge of adequacy:

• Engaging with members to assist them in their retirement strategy.
• Promoting trusted guidance such as Pension Wise and Money Helper.
• Preparing for changes such as dashboards, guided retirement and a more engaged membership.

The Regulator highlights that DC savers, particularly renters and those without other savings, risk reaching retirement with too few options. The Regulator urges trustees to develop their role to ensure DC savers achieve good outcomes in retirement and to go beyond asset stewardship by becoming enablers of good retirement outcomes. By this the Regulator envisages trustees offering tailored support, guiding savers through complex retirement decisions, and ensuring schemes are governed to high standards.