The Pensions Regulator has prosecuted an employer for deliberately failing to enrol their employees on a workplace pension scheme, highlighting the importance of compliance.

This is the first time that the Pensions Regulator has prosecuted an employer for this offense.

Bus company, Stotts Tour, is accused of not fulfilling their legal obligations to enrol its 36 employees in a pension scheme. The company’s Managing Director, Alan Stott, is being accused of consenting or conniving in the bus company’s offence, or allowing the offence to be committed by neglect.

The case is due to be heard in October 2017.

Businesses, you have been warned!

Of late, there has been a real crackdown on employers who are dodging their legal obligations.

Back in May, we reported that the Pensions Regulator had publicly named those employers who had been served an Escalating Penalty Notice for violations in relation to their auto enrolment duties. The Pension Regulator made it clear that there is no excuse for flouting the law and warned employers who breach the rules that they may face additional enforcement action against them, including prosecution in appropriate cases.

In June, we also alerted employers to the spot checks being carried out by the Pensions Regulator across the UK. These checks allow the Pensions Regulator to pinpoint those employers who have not taken the right steps to become or remain compliant with their legal duties.

Need some help?

As you can see, compliance is key to ensuring that you avoid some unpleasant consequences.

Ellis Whittam can help you keep on top of your legal obligations. No matter how small or big your HR and Employment Law challenge, Ellis Whittam can give you the guidance and support you need.

Although we do not provide pensions advice, we are able to refer you to carefully selected partner organisations that can provide you with fixed fee advice and assistance throughout the process of establishing and running an auto-enrolment scheme.

Get in touch to find out more about the wide range of services we can offer your business.