Pierce provides opportunity for Blackburn and Preston businesses to seek free support and advice regarding Auto Enrolment

A local pensions group is warning thousands of small businesses around Blackburn and Preston to make sure they are complying with all auto enrolment duties.

The warning comes from the Friends of Auto Enrolment (FoAE) Blackburn and Preston Region which has been set up by the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) to help businesses who are confused about the new scheme and require help and guidance.

Automatic enrolment, which first came into force over three years ago, requires every business to place their staff into a workplace pension scheme – no matter how many people they employ. Large businesses have already enrolled into the programme and the government now wants small business to do the same, but many are finding the process hard and confusing.

However, the CIPPs FoAE is offering a helping hand and is inviting bewildered business owners as well as professionals who work in the sector to come along to discuss the latest updates, findings and solutions.

Lisa Kennery of Pierce CA Ltd, pictured, co-chair of the group said: “We understand many small businesses will be feeling the pressure of automatic enrolment, but there is no need to panic. With our guidance session we will get businesses ready and able for automatic enrolment.”

Daniel Foy of Astute Wealth Management, co-chair of the group, added: “As a local community there is much talk of Auto Enrolment as it will affect every business up and down the high street. As professionals working in the sector, we are keen to encourage compliance and we hope that through these meetings we can discuss key areas and provide useful tips. “

“Businesses cannot and must not ignore automatic enrolment. Whether you run a chip shop and employ three members of staff or run a construction firm and employ 40 people – either way you will still need to enrol all of your staff.” The meeting is taking place on the 3rd March at Taylor Patterson offices, Lanson House, Winckley Gardens, Mount Street, Preston, PR1 8RY. For questions or to book your place, please contact friendsofae@cipp.org.uk or visit: http://www.cipp.org.uk/en/Pensions/events.cfm