Firefighters RDS modified scheme
Background
The first national pension scheme specially designed for firefighters was introduced in 1926. But it applied only to regular whole-time firefighters.
It was not until 6 April 2006 when the Firefighters' Pension Scheme 2006 ("FPS 2006") as set out in the Firefighters' Pension Scheme (England) Order 2006 came into effect, that retained firefighters could become Scheme members. Those who were serving on 6 April 2006 could join with effect from that date, or a later date.
The previous Scheme: the Firefighters' Pension Scheme 1992 ("FPS 1992"): continues in force for regular firefighters who wish to remain members of that Scheme.
The exclusion of retained firefighters from FPS 1992 was challenged under the Part-Time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000 and this resulted in a settlement which allowed certain retained firefighters with service between 1 July 2000 and 6 April 2006 to have "special" membership of FPS 2006 based on their employment during this period. They could not be admitted to the FPS 1992 because that is now a closed Scheme. However, the rules of the FPS 2006 were adapted for special members so that, in places, they reflect the rules of the FPS 1992.
The relevant amendments were made to FPS 2006 in April 2014. They have retrospective effect for those who are eligible to join under the special terms, who elect for special membership, and who pay the appropriate contributions.
This section sets out the terms of the modified FPS 2006 for those who have elected for special membership.
