Retirement

SY Plus Limited does not have a normal retirement age but to help you plan for your retirement the following information gives you details of when you will be eligible to claim state pension benefits.

The organisation is committed to equal opportunities for all its employees. The organisation recognises the contributions of a diverse workforce, including the skills and experience of older employees. It believes that employees should, wherever possible, be permitted to continue working for as long as they wish to do so. The organisation operates a flexible retirement policy and employees may voluntarily retire at a time of their choosing.

If an employee wishes to retire, they should inform their line manager in writing as far in advance as possible and, in any event, in accordance with the notice period as set out in their contract of employment. This will assist SY Plus Limited with its succession planning.

SY Plus Limited will write to the employee acknowledging the employee's notice to retire.

The HR department will arrange a meeting with the employee to discuss arrangements for retirement, including the intended retirement date, succession and handover plans, pension details and phased retirement, if applicable.

The organisation will invite all employees to regular workplace discussions with their line managers. These will take place once a year, when performance appraisals are carried out. During those discussions, the relevant line manager will discuss the employee's performance, developmental or training needs and the organisation's and employee's future plans and expectations in the short-, medium- and long-term. During those meetings, employees may discuss their future plans or proposals for retirement.

A record of each workplace discussion will be retained and a copy given to the employee.

A discussion about possible retirement will not result in the organisation making any assumptions about the employee's commitment to the organisation. The organisation seeks to retain the best talent, including older employees. Workplace discussions are an informal opportunity for both the organisation and employees to plan jointly for the future.

An employee who is shortly to retire will often have considerable knowledge in relation to their role and responsibilities. The organisation may require the employee's assistance and cooperation for succession planning.

Prior to retirement, employees should cooperate with the organisation, if requested to do so, by:

Employees should consider their pension provision and take independent financial advice before making any decision in relation to retirement.