I am aged 49, am single, rent a flat, and have no savings and no pension. I am a newly qualified social worker...

[Butterflywing]

Which is financially best for me: doing an Assisted Year ( AYSE) as an NHS or Local Council Social Worker?

I just wanted to let you all know I have secured an AYSE LA adults position, I actually had several job offers come in at once even though I went for interviews weeks ago!

The NHS SW AYSE posts were £5 k less than the LA so a no brainer. There is also significantly different pay between LAs I have realised.

Ok, so who do I talk to about wanting to pay more into my work pension?

I haven't got a start date yet as I have to go through all the references and checks. How long does this usually last?

Speak to your pensions team at the LA they usually are combined with the payroll team.

Brilliant news congratulations! From memory it took about 5/6 weeks from interview to start date for me but our HR is VERY slow. Bet you can’t wait to get started.

If you want to pay more, you need to go to this webpage www.lgpsmember.org/arm/already-member-extra.php

It will explain to you the difference between an AVC and a APC.

If you wish to create an APC, you can apply for it on that website and print out the completed form and send it to your new provider.

If you wish to do an AVC, then you will need to contact your scheme provider directly.

Congratulations OP!