Stay protected in retirement

Proud to lead a union that has experienced a huge uplift in membership during a dispute, along with a surge in the number of engaged activists within our branches and regions.

What has been a surprise is how little let-up there’s been since the ballot closed and the result was announced. The energy among activists and the level of campaigning activity have remained high. Because of your clear dissatisfaction with the government – shown from the ballots results – but also your commitment to the children in your care, we remain at the heart of the dispute.

As I write, we are in intensive talks with the government to find solutions. Regardless of how our campaigning efforts manifest themselves, I can assure you we won’t stop until we get what we know our members deserve and, through them, what the children they educate deserve.

Thank you for the fantastic things you do in your schools and for being part of NAHT as we continue to grow and evolve alongside you.

Our life members might not require help with issues related to their current employment any more, but we do support them on a range of regulatory and criminal matters. As a regulated profession, teachers in England can be referred to the Teacher Regulation Agency (TRA) even after they retire. TRA investigations are usually complex, involving a lot of documentation, and our members find the process very stressful. We try to resolve the matter at the earliest possible opportunity while ensuring we achieve the best outcome for our members. However, the TRA process often takes more than a year to resolve, with some cases taking several years if a Professional Conduct Panel hearing is required.

Testimonial from a life member

Although life members may not be teaching, they can still require an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. Where life members are concerned about potential soft information on their enhanced DBS certificate, we advise them on how to challenge such disclosures.

Sadly, on rare occasions, life members are contacted by the police regarding historical allegations related to their time as serving school leaders. As part of life membership, we represent members with these cases.

We also provide legal advice to life members who the police have contacted to be a witness in a criminal matter, which is often of great reassurance to members.

“NAHT did more than just handle my case with professional expertise – I also found the legal officer showed real empathy and support for the circumstances I found myself in and was encouraging throughout.

“There were times when I felt particularly lonely and isolated in the last three years, but I never felt completely alone because I knew NAHT was there working on my behalf.

“I felt that NAHT had my back at all times, worked hard and provided me with the feedback and encouragement I needed to get through the process.

“Typical of the legal officer’s thoughtfulness, towards the end of the process, they phoned to let me know the TRA had come to a conclusion –knowing I had not seen the email, they asked if I wanted them to read it to me. I did, and I am so grateful that they immediately let me know the result.”

Trusted by school leaders since 1897, NAHT has you covered. Become a life member* and gain peace of mind that will allow you to enjoy your retirement to the full: www.naht.org.uk/lifemembers