28
May 2014
Auto-Enrolment Compliance
Dunelm Soft Furnishings Limited has become the first well-known organisation to come to the attention of the Pensions Regulator for failing to fully comply with its obligations in respect of auto-enrolment.
An inspection was carried out by the Regulator which ascertained that a significant proportion of employees had been enrolled into the pension scheme late, meaning that Dunelm had failed to make the correct level of contributions, to the level of £108,000.
The Regulator concluded that Dunelm were aware of the issues surrounding compliance in advance of registering the scheme; thus the Regulator was satisfied that the declaration given by the employer was inaccurate. Factors such as personnel and the unsuitable payroll system contributed to these failings.
This report demonstrates the need for all employers to be aware of their obligations in respect of auto-enrolment, and to ensure that deadlines are adhered to, to avoid coming to the attention of the Regulator. In this case, not only was a compliance notice issued, but also an unpaid contributions notice given the significant amounts owing to employees. It should be noted that Dunelm is now fully compliant following engagement with the Regulator.
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