22nd April 2024

New research reveals a powerful way people can better engage with their pension

-   Almost half (49%) of workers unaware what their pension is invested in
-   But two in five (40%) would increase their contributions if they knew their pension was investing in funds that aligned with their values and beliefs

According to new research* from WEALTH at work of over 2,000 working adults with a defined contribution workplace pension, nearly half (49%) said they were unaware of what their pension is invested in.

There seems to be a general lack of pension understanding with 29% unaware that their pension is even invested, and 38% saying they were unaware that their pension had a choice of investment funds to choose from, which increases to 44% for those age 55+.

Coupled with this, 30% said that they were unaware that if they didn't choose what their pension is invested in, it would automatically be done for them by their pension provider (into the default investment fund).

Currently only one in five (21%) say that they have chosen pension investments based on their values and beliefs (such as environmental, social or religious beliefs). Although two in five (40%) said they would increase their contributions if they knew their pension was investing in funds that aligned with their values and beliefs. This increases to almost half (48%) for younger workers (18-34-year-olds).

Jonathan Watts-Lay, Director, WEALTH at work, comments; "It is widely recognised that people need to be more engaged with their pension savings and investing more for their retirement. So, it's worrying that our research shows that many people don't realise that a pension is an investment, or even that they have a choice over how their money is invested in their pension. Particularly concerning is that this worsens for those approaching retirement (age 55+), as at this point people need to consider how they plan to generate a retirement income (i.e. take it as cash, buy an annuity, go into drawdown or a combination of options) and ensure their pension investments or ‘glide path' is aligned with this."

He adds; "In order for people to better prepare for their financial future, it's vital that they engage with their pensions as early as possible. So, it's really interesting to see that many said they would increase their pension contributions if they knew it was invested in funds that aligned with their values and beliefs, and this is despite the current cost of living challenges. This is especially appealing for younger workers, a cohort typically less engaged with their pensions."

Watts-Lay explains; "In recent years there has been a significant expansion of Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) considerations, with people wanting to align their pension investments with their values and beliefs. However, ESG is a broad category and it means different things to different people, with no one size fits all approach. There will be some people who care passionately about environmental issues and others will have religious beliefs to take into account when making decisions. Some might want to invest in companies that promote social cohesion, greater representation and diversity. It may be that others are just wanting to choose investments that are having a positive impact on the world. But simply knowing that pensions can be used to make a difference can be a powerful way to switch people on to better engage with their long-term savings."

He adds, "For those wanting to review their pensions, your pension provider or employer should be able to explain the different investment funds available and what the funds' aims and risk ratings are, as well as how to change the funds your pension is invested in.  Many leading workplaces empower their employees with financial education and guidance via financial coaches to help them build understanding and engagement around their pensions and the options at-retirement. Afterall, people who better understand their pensions are likely to be more engaged and save more, make better decisions at-retirement and be financially better off, which ultimately is what pensions are all about."

*Research for WEALTH at work was carried out online by Opinion Matters throughout 20/03/24 - 26/03/24 amongst a panel of 2,002 Workers, aged 18+ who have a defined contribution workplace pension. Click here to see the report:

Ends

Notes to editors:

WEALTH at work is a leading financial wellbeing and retirement specialist - helping those in the workplace to improve their financial future. Established in 2005, our financial coaches work with hundreds of organisations across both the private and public sector by providing financial education and one to one guidance. This can be arranged on a bespoke basis and covers a full range of topics. For those wishing to understand their personal financial situation, support is also provided through our helpline. At this point, we can provide access to a savings platform (which can be linked to payroll) or provide regulated financial advice. Our advice servicesupports those who need specific recommendationswhich is particularly useful for those at retirement.For more information, visitwww.wealthatwork.co.uk

For further information, please contact Cath Roan, Roan Media on 07801 817 451 or cath@roanmedia.co.uk, or the WEALTH at work press office on 0151 255 3468 or 07766785831 or emailrachel.d.alderton@wealthatwork.co.uk

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Jonathan Watts-Lay

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