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Special rules apply to temporary absences that arise from maternity, paternity, adoption and
parental leave.
If you are away from work for any of these reasons, any period of paid absence (including a
period when you are receiving statutory maternity, paternity or adoption pay) will count as
Pensionable Service, and you will be entitled to benefits in relation to that period on the basis
of your Pensionable Pay as it would have been but for your absence. Your contributions to
the Scheme will however be based on your actual pay.
You will continue to be a Scheme member during any period of unpaid leave but this period
will not be included as Pensionable Service in the calculation of your benefits. However, you
will continue to be covered for the benefits payable upon death as if you were a contributing
member during such a period. Upon returning to work, with the agreement of the Trustees
you can pay any arrears of contributions required to ensure that any period of unpaid leave
that would not otherwise count will be treated as Pensionable Service.
The statutory rules relating to family leave are complex and if you would like further
information please contact the Scheme Administrator.