Harrow pensioners who have not responded to multiple requests to confirm they are still alive will have their pension payments suspended from January 2026.
The Harrow Council Pension Board discussed the matter at its meeting on 4 December 2025, as part of a wider Pensions Administration Update. The board did not provide an estimated financial impact of the 413 unclaimed pensions.
According to the report in the Public reports pack, the admin team have processed the responses to life certificate requests and have 413 remaining members who have not responded to either certificate request.
Life certificates are sent to pensioners living overseas annually, and to a random selection of 10% of UK pensioners, alongside the Pensioner Focus newsletter. Every three years, life certificates are sent to all pensioners.
The certificates are an audit requirement and a way of identifying potential fraud. They also serve to inform pensioner members of available resources.
At the meeting, those in attendance were Richard Harbord, Councillor Pritesh Patel (Portfolio Holder for Cleaner Streets & Public Safety), Emma Harkin, Gerald Balabanoff, and a Vacant position.
