The Firefighters' Pension Scheme Local Pension Board of Northumberland Council met on Tuesday 07 July 2026. The meeting's agenda included a review of the monitoring report, a discussion on the Retained Firefighters' Pension Settlement Second Options Exercise, and consideration of the SCAPE discount rate.

Monitoring Report

The board was scheduled to review the monitoring report, which provides an overview of the scheme's performance and adherence to regulations. This report is a key document for ensuring the effective management of the Firefighters' Pension Scheme.

Retained Firefighters' Pension Settlement Second Options Exercise

A significant item on the agenda was the Retained Firefighters' Pension Settlement Second Options Exercise, also referred to as the Matthews exercise. This discussion was expected to cover the details and implications of providing a second set of options to retained firefighters regarding their pension settlements.

SCAPE Discount Rate

The meeting was also set to address the SCAPE discount rate. The SCAPE (Scottish and Local Government Common Investment Fund) discount rate is a crucial factor in pension fund valuations and future liabilities. The board was to consider its implications for the Firefighters' Pension Scheme.

Pension Dashboard Programme

The Pension Dashboard Programme was another topic scheduled for discussion. This initiative aims to provide individuals with a consolidated view of their various pension pots, enhancing transparency and financial planning for members.

Draft Annual Report of the Board

The board was to consider the draft of its annual report. This report would likely summarise the board's activities, findings, and recommendations over the past year, providing an account of its governance and oversight functions.

Bluelight Fire Pension Bulletins

The agenda also included a review of Bluelight Fire Pension Bulletins. These bulletins typically contain updates and guidance relevant to fire service pension schemes, ensuring the board remains informed of any changes in legislation or best practices.

Local Pension Board Risk Register

The Local Pension Board Risk Register was scheduled for review. This document identifies potential risks to the effective operation of the pension board and outlines strategies for their mitigation.

WYPF Monthly Client Reports

The board was to examine the West Yorkshire Pension Fund (WYPF) Monthly Client Reports. These reports provide detailed financial and performance information from the WYPF, which manages the assets of the Firefighters' Pension Scheme.

Contingent Decision

A Contingent Decision was listed on the agenda. The specific nature of this decision was not detailed in the provided documents, but it suggests a matter that requires a decision based on certain pre-determined conditions or outcomes from other agenda items.

Future Meeting Dates

The board was also scheduled to confirm future meeting dates, with proposed dates for October 2026, January 2027, and April 2027.

The meeting was scheduled to be held in private, as per the Terms of Reference for the Firefighters' Pension Scheme Local Pension Board. The attendees included Michael McKendrick, Councillor Malcolm Robinson, Steve Richards, Councillor John Ace Beynon (Chairman of the Council), Simon Long, Nichola Turnbull, Keith Carruthers, Irene O'Grady, and Helen Scargill. Nichola Turnbull served as the contact for enquiries, and Simon Long was the Board Secretary. Helen Scargill is identified as a Client Relationship Manager for the West Yorkshire Pension Fund.