PCS demands halt to RCPS closure as Civil Service Pensions crisis deepens

Earlier this week, PCS wrote to the Research Council Pension Scheme Project board and senior employer representatives demanding an immediate pause to the closure of the RCPS and the transfer of all active members into the civil service Alpha scheme on 1 October 2026. 

Since Capita took over civil service pension administration in December 2025, thousands of staff and pensioners have faced months‑long delays in receiving quotes and payments, leaving many in serious financial difficulty.

PCS set out three clear demands:

• Pause the planned closure of the RCPS and the transfer of administration from JSS to Capita.
• Guarantee meaningful consultation with trade unions before any further decisions are made.
• Conduct a full review of keeping administration in‑house, in line with the government’s own commitment to expanding insourcing across the public sector.

"Increasingly at risk"

The employer has now responded, acknowledging the scale of the crisis in civil service pensions and confirming that the October 2026 transfer date is now “increasingly at risk.” They confirmed they are working with the Cabinet Office and employers to try to ensure the reform can go ahead without disrupting pension payments.

But despite recognising the severity of the situation, they have not agreed to postpone the transfer - even as backlogs in the Civil Service Pension Scheme now stand at levels equivalent to the population of a UK town.

The employer insists it is legally required to close the RCPS. PCS is clear: any legal obligations do not override the duty to protect members from the very real risks caused by Capita’s catastrophic failures.

PCS rejects dismissal of in‑house administration

The employer has also dismissed reviewing the option of retaining in‑house administration, arguing there would be “no scheme to administer” once RCPS closes.

PCS strongly rejects this argument. At a time when the government claims to be delivering the biggest insourcing programme in a generation, refusing even to consider in‑house administration is irresponsible and short‑sighted.

PCS will keep up the pressure

PCS will continue to demand:

• A formal postponement of the RCPS transfer
• A genuine review of keeping administration in‑house
• Meaningful consultation with trade unions before any further decisions.

Your pensions, your union—make our voice stronger

This is about more than pensions. It’s about ensuring members’ rights, security, and livelihoods aren’t sacrificed because of a failing administration system.

If you’re not yet a PCS member, there has never been a more important time to join us.

PCS will continue to fight for fairness, accountability, and protection for every member affected by these changes.