Flexible and Partial Retirement Guidance for Managers Download Flexible Retirement Request Form Download Partial Retirement Request Form

This guidance provides information on your retirement options at Imperial for active and deferred pension scheme members and advises on ways we can assist and support you in planning for and adapting to the prospect of retirement.

Can someone take their pension and continue to work at Imperial?

Yes. But only with the prior agreement of their Department, and they must have a reduction in hours and/or salary.

When can someone retire?

If in good health
If in poor health
  • At any time after your 55th birthday*.

*Some SAUL members may be able to retire after their 50th birthday.

Note: the earlier the retirement, the lower the pension will be.
  • At any time;
  • After service of at least 2 years;
  • If Imperial and the relevant pension scheme agree that the person is too ill to continue to work. 

 Note: The Process must be started by referral to Occupational Health

 

What are the options?

Partial retirement (all schemes)
  • Take full USS/SAUL/NHS pension immediately. 
  • One full calendar month break between the retirement date and the return to work date.
  • Part-time only: max 0.5 FTE. 
  • Maximum 3-year contract.
Flexible retirement USS
  • Take between 20% and 80% of your pension immediately. 
  • No break in service.
  • Reduce hours or salary by a minimum of 20%.
  • Full retirement must usually follow within three years of Flexible Retirement.
Flexible retirement NHS
  • Take between 20% and 100% of your pension immediately.
  • No break in service.
  • Reduce hours or salary by a minimum of 10%. 
  • Full retirement must usually follow within three years of Flexible Retirement.

Guidance and FAQs

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Managers Guidance

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