NHS retire and return scheme explained
Last updated:
18 December 2025
Retire and return allows you to take your full NHS pension while continuing to work. Find out how you can sign up for the scheme and what you need to know before you do.
What is the NHS retire and return scheme?
The NHS retire and return scheme gives staff the option to take their pension and still work within the NHS. It is designed to help people ease into retirement while still using their skills.
As long as you’re under 75, you can continue paying into a 2015 scheme pension too.
Read the full NHS guidance about retire and returnOpens in a new window
Who is eligible to participate?
Most NHS staff who are members of the NHS Pension Scheme can take part. This includes staff in the 1995, 2008 and 2015 pension sections. You need to reach the minimum pension age for your scheme, and you must formally retire for at least a day before you go back to work.
You can take part in retire and return once you’ve reached your minimum pension age. This will depend on which pension scheme you’re in, you can find out your minimum pension ageOpens in a new window on the NHSBSA website.
Your employer will also need to agree to your return plans, so it is a good idea to speak with your line manager early.
How does the scheme work?
Discuss when you would like to retire with your line manager and set a date
take your full pension benefits and then have a break in service of at least 24 hours
after this you can return to your role or start a new one.
It might not be possible for you to go back to the same role you retired from, or your hours or duties might change after you retire.
If you don’t want to leave your job, you might choose partial retirement (drawdown) instead of retire and return.
Contract types and working hours
You can come back on a permanent or fixed term contract and can agree part time hours or other flexible options. Some returning staff choose shorter hours so they can enjoy more personal time while still staying involved in NHS work.
Impact on pension and benefits
Your pension continues once you return. If you come back and join the 2015 scheme, you can build more pension benefits on top of what you already have.
There are some earnings rules for staff who retired from the 1995 section. These can affect how much you can earn if you return to certain roles. Your pension team or employer can explain how these rules work.
Read the section about abatement on the NHSBSA site for more information about earning limits on the 1995 schemeOpens in a new window
For more help with pension planning you can use our pension calculator.
You can also read our guidance on NHS pensions.
Benefits of the retire and return scheme
Financial benefits
Retire and return allows you to receive your pension and your salary at the same time, this means you can boost your total income, even if you cut back on hours at work.
If you join the 2015 scheme when you return, you can continue to build your pension pot. This can help you afford the retirement you want.
Our pension calculator can help you work out your potential income after you retire.
Workforce support
If you go back to work after taking your pension, the NHS gets to keep your skills and experience. You’ll also help out with staffing shortages and training new staff members.
Potential drawbacks and considerations
Some pension rules can limit earnings for people who retired from the 1995 section. It is important to check how these rules apply to your role. Your hours may also depend on what's available, so talk to your line manager before you decide to retire and return.
You could need to pay more tax if your total income from work and your pension takes you into a higher income tax bracket. Read our article about tax and your pension.
It can take time to plan your retirement and return, so starting discussions early can make the process easier.
How to apply for the retire and return scheme
- Talk with your line manager about your plans
- choose a retirement date once you’ve spoken with your line manager and let them know
- complete the pension forms for the NHS Business Services Authority
- agree a return to work plan with your manager
- take a break in service of at least 24 hours after retirement
- start your new contract.
Frequently asked questions about retire and return
Can I return to the same job?
Yes, if your line manager agrees and the role is available.
Can I reduce my hours?
Yes. You can ask for fewer hours or flexible working, talk to your line manager about whether it’s possible.
Will my pension payments stop or reduce?
No, unless specific 1995 section rules apply to you.
Can I build my pension after I retire from the NHS?
Yes, if you join the 2015 scheme when you return.
