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DWP consults on standards of pension scheme trusteeship and governance

DWP consults on standards of pension scheme trusteeship and governance

19 Dec 2025

The Department for Work (DWP) and Pensions has launched a major consultation on raising standards in trusteeship and governance for workplace pension schemes. From increased oversight for professional trustees to new ideas for supporting lay trustees and regulating administrators, these proposals could reshape how schemes operate. With the consultation closing on 6 March 2026, now is the time to understand what’s changing and how it could impact your scheme.

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What you need to know

  • On 15 December 2025, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) launched a consultation that aims to identify measures for improving the standards of trusteeship, governance and administration of trust-based workplace pension schemes. The consultation closes on 6 March 2026.

  • The DWP has emphasised the vital role of good trustee decision-making in delivering retirement outcomes, particularly given the significant changes to the pensions landscape being introduced in the Pension Schemes Bill.

  • The consultation focuses on the regulation of professional trustees, with particular consideration given to sole trustees. It also raises questions about the diversity of trustee boards and how best to support lay trustees in their roles.

  • It also considers whether there should be greater regulation and oversight of pension scheme administrators.

Find out more

For further information, please get in touch with Ethan TaylorRob Wallace or speak to your usual XPS Group contact.

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