Aston University calls for wider adoption of Living Pension scheme

The latest research from Aston University showed that women are missing out on retirement security as the pension gap continues to widen. 

Dr Hayley James (pictured), senior research fellow at Aston University, said the Living Pension is one of several solutions to improve pension saving, as discussed in her book Pension Saving in a Gendered Lifecourse. 

James said the accreditation is not just about increasing contributions, but ensuring pension schemes work for lower income workers who are most at risk of poverty in later life.

The study found that most employers (67%) found it easier to become accredited than expected, and many have seen happier, more engaged staff, with improvements in recruitment and retention. 

To raise awareness of the scheme and its benefits, the Centre for Personal Financial Wellbeing at Aston University is hosting a reception on 2nd September 2026, with speakers including Shelley Morris, head of business development and policy at the Living Pension, Abigail Johnson, head of compensation and benefits at Phoenix Group, and Susith Jayamanne, reward and data analysis specialist at West Bromwich Building Society.

James said: “It is widely acknowledged that people aren’t saving enough to lead to adequate incomes in later life, yet we also know people are struggling with increasing cost of living. 

“Making changes to the minimum levels of automatic enrolment could end up overburdening people who are already financially stretched. 

“The Living Pension accreditation helps employers make sure they are getting the most out of their pension scheme.”