12 May 2026
Schemes are already gearing up to make use of the new Virgin Media* remedy following its inclusion in the Pension Schemes Act 2026, according to a new webinar survey from Sacker & Partners LLP (Sackers), the UK’s leading specialist pensions law firm.
Polling conducted during the webinar found that 33% of schemes now consider themselves “highly likely” to make use of the remedy, while a further 37% said they believe it is possible and are investigating further. Of those expecting to proceed, 5% plan to begin immediately and 37% anticipate doing so within the first year.
James Bingham, partner, at Sackers said: “The introduction of the Virgin Media remedy is a very welcome and pragmatic step forward for the industry. Over recent years it has been a central topic of discussion, with some schemes and advisers investing significant time and resource into understanding their positions. The arrival of a legislative fix is a welcome development which trustees will hope draws a line under this as an issue.
“We are pleased that the legislation provides a practical and relatively straightforward route forward. The gateway principles are clear and workable, giving schemes greater certainty around the process and next steps.”
Bingham continued: “The focus now turns to implementation. Schemes will need to consider the availability and quality of historic member data, which is not always immediately accessible and can take time to retrieve. There may also be actuarial and evidential challenges, and some actuaries may want to take advice on the steps they are being asked to take.
“While the remedy provides a clear route forward for those that can use it, it’s important to be realistic about the work involved and the time it may take to complete.”
Bingham concluded: “Schemes will need to ensure they follow the required actuarial procedure and maintain clear documentation. Done properly, this should help bring long-awaited clarity on affected amendments and enable continued administration of benefits in line with current practice.”
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