Becoming a TPAS Adviser
The Pensions Advisory Service is a voluntary organisation providing free help and information to members of the public. We rely on pension professionals to volunteer their services, and are always delighted to hear from anyone who would like to know more about being an adviser.
To apply to become an adviser, please print and complete this application form and forward to us at 11 Belgrave Road, London, SW1V 1RB. Alternatively, call us on 0845 601 2923 and request a brochure and application form.
What does a TPAS adviser actually do?
The majority of advisers handle casework from their home or their office, by letter or telephone or both. Casework can be anything from clearing up a simple misunderstanding between the member and the scheme, to a more complicated problem involving skill and diplomacy from the adviser.
Our London office has a rota of volunteers who help to answer telephone enquiries from the public on the Pensions Helpline and deal with routine correspondence.
These advisers typically give up one day a week or one day a fortnight, although we are also pleased to hear from individuals who could help out ad hoc at busy times.
How much time does it take?
It takes as much time as you are able to spare. We would think that you should allow about 3-4 hours per month. The important thing is that once you take on a case you pursue it promptly and efficiently. If, due to other commitments, you cannot take a case, you can return it to the office.
What commitments do I have to make?
You must be prepared to:
- abide by the Pensions Advisory Service Code of Practice, which is set out in our leaflet;
- attend an Induction Session (normally lasting 1-2 hours);
- attend two out of every four Adviser Workshops - two are held each year and they normally qualify for two hours Formal CPD under the PMI scheme;
- take some casework each year.
Induction Sessions and Workshops are held at various locations throughout the country.
All out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed, and so there is no financial commitment.
What are the benefits of being an adviser?
In our experience pension professionals find being an adviser rewarding for a variety of reasons.
Many people wish to do some form of voluntary work. For those working in pensions, or who are retired after a career in pensions, being an adviser is a valuable use of their knowledge and experience in what is often, to members of the public with pension problems, a very difficult and confusing subject.
Being an adviser also frequently brings career benefits. Taking on cases outside their normal areas of work broadens the adviser's experience and can help in their everyday work. Career prospects can also be enhanced as a result of the experience gained and the commitment demonstrated by being an adviser.
Some advisers feel that the main benefit is simply being able to help people with their pension problems.
