A significant milestone for the Pension Dashboard Programme (PDP) was reached in March when three industry participants successfully completed the stages required to connect to the pensions dashboards ecosystem. These organisations are part of a group of approximately 20 ‘volunteer participants,’ who have now started their connection journeys. Connection dates are fast approaching, and the PDP has confirmed that the first pension provider has completed connection to the ecosystem, this achievement marks a key moment as the industry prepares for all providers and schemes to begin connecting. The initial tranche of the largest Master Trust schemes is expected to connect by the end of April 2025 and the largest defined benefit schemes by the end of May. And as the programme gains momentum, the PDP has published a blog that outlines the essential steps for a successful connection.
Confirm the connect by date
All pension schemes and providers in scope must be connected to the pensions dashboards ecosystem by October 2026. However, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has set out earlier suggested connection dates, starting from April 2025, based on the size and type of scheme. These dates, although not statutory, are designed to help stagger the volume of connections and ensure a smooth rollout. The PDP strongly encourages providers to align with these dates, as they will help avoid the last-minute rush and reduce potential bottlenecks. Being aware of these dates will give schemes enough time to meet their obligations while managing other priorities effectively.
Confirm route to connection
The PDP expects pension providers and schemes to have already established their route to connection. If this hasn’t been done yet, the PDP urges schemes to make this decision as soon as possible. The process of connecting directly to the ecosystem can be lengthy and complex, and it may not be feasible to complete this route by the specified connection date without substantial resources and technical infrastructure. As such, most schemes will likely connect via a third party, especially those yet to determine their connection route. In light of this, the PDP has published a separate blog offering guidance for those who choose the third-party route.
Consult the dashboard standards
To connect successfully, pension schemes must meet the pensions dashboards standards, which cover technical specifications, data management, security protocols, and reporting. These standards ensure that data flows efficiently, securely, and in compliance with the regulatory framework. The PDP recently updated the standards, with most revisions being minor and clarifying existing requirements. While these updates are important, the final version of the standards is still pending release.
Prepare data
The PDP emphasises that preparing reliable and up-to-date pension data is one of the most critical steps in connecting to the ecosystem. Accurate and complete data will ensure that dashboards provide consumers with the right information at the right time. The PDP's approach here aligns with the Pensions Regulator’s recently unveiled new data strategy, which urges the pensions industry to enhance data standards to benefit schemes, savers, and the broader economy. This step is particularly important in light of recent research which indicates that that data inaccuracies cause one in five dashboard connection queries.
Decide the data matching approach
Each pension scheme must develop a method for matching individuals’ details with its records on the dashboard. This involves deciding on the matching criteria—such as name, date of birth, or other identifiers—and ensuring the approach is rigorous and effective.
Stay up to date
Finally, the PDP encourages pension schemes and providers to stay up to date by regularly reviewing updates from the PDP, the Pensions Regulator, and other relevant bodies. The PDP’s connection hub is a resource for guidance on a range of topics, from technical specifications to regulatory requirements.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss any of the points raised in this blog, please get in touch with one of our pensions solicitors at Brodies, or your usual contact.
