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How a pension scheme audit timetable works and what trustees should expect – part one
From the outside, an audit can look like a mysterious flurry of emails, document requests and deadlines that appear out of nowhere. But seen from the inside, it looks very different. A pension scheme audit is cyclical, predictable and structured. It runs in rhythms that repeat year after year. When all stakeholders in the audit process understand and prepare for that rhythm, the whole process becomes smoother, faster and a lot less frustrating. So what does that…
Why experienced pensions specialists are choosing Assure UK
When someone leaves a big firm, it’s not accidental. In most cases, they’ve reached a point where they want to focus more clearly on a particular area of work rather than continue across a broad mix of clients. That was the case for Nick Thomas, who joined Assure UK as an Associate Director earlier this year. His career has taken him through large firms,…
Why pension scheme trustees find ESOG and ORA challenging – and practical ways to get started
By Laura Casserly, Assurance Director at Assure UK In recent months, I’ve sat down with many trustees who’ve shared their worries with me, sometimes over a Teams call, sometimes across a meeting table. Nearly all recognise that Effective System of Governance (ESOG) and Own Risk Assessment (ORA) matter. But I hear, time and again, how…
Why More Trustees Are Reviewing Their Governance – Even When It’s Not Mandatory
By Laura Casserly, Assurance Director at Assure UK Over the past year, I’ve noticed a trend: trustees from pension schemes below the 100 member regulatory threshold are voluntarily reviewing their governance. Even though the Pension Regulator’s General Code doesn’t mandate it, trustees increasingly see the value in proactively assessing their Effective System of Governance (ESOG).…
The Case of the Missing Auditor: Join the Investigation This Halloween
Help us solve the mystery this Halloween and be in with a chance to win a Halloween Hamper.* Something strange has happened at Assure UK…At precisely 8:47 a.m., one of our team members vanished from her desk. Her mug was still warm. Her monitor was still on. But she was gone. The scene? A quiet…
Effective System of Governance FAQs
Effective System of Governance (ESOG):
This FAQ tackles the commonly asked questions from professional trustees and scheme managers seeking to understand, implement and maintain their ESOG in line with regulatory expectations.
ESOG Implementation and Monitoring
Creating an Effective System of Governance (ESOG) is about building a framework that helps trustees run their scheme confidently.
This post explains how to implement your ESOG, and monitor its effectiveness.
The General Code of Practice – An Overview
The General Code of Practice from The Pensions Regulator (TPR) came into force on 28 March 2024, introducing a new, consolidated framework for pension scheme governance and compliance.
This page explains the General Code, why it was introduced, and how it relates to the Effective System of Governance (ESOG) and other scheme responsibilities.
What Makes Up an ESOG?
An Effective System of Governance (ESOG) is made up of several key components that together ensure a pension scheme is governed safely, effectively and in line with regulatory expectations.
This post outlines the main components of an ESOG
The Effective System of Governance (ESOG) In Detail
An Effective System of Governance (ESOG) is the structured framework that pension scheme trustees must have to ensure their scheme is well run, compliant, and aligned with members’ best interests.
This Knowledge Hub post explains what an ESOG is, why it’s important, and who needs one in plain English.
Audit Preparation: Account Reconciliation
Pension scheme account reconciliation involves verifying that the scheme’s financial records align with external statements, such as bank accounts, investment reports, and contribution schedules.
This process is crucial for identifying discrepancies and ensuring the integrity of financial statements.
Own Risk Assessment (ORA): What Pension Scheme Trustees Need to Know
With the first Own Risk Assessment (ORA) deadline approaching in March 2026, trustees must understand what’s required—and, more importantly, how to approach it efficiently and effectively.
This article details how most schemes already have many of the necessary elements in place.