Pensions and Retirement Training Course on Pension Dispute Resolution and Ombudsman

Module 1: Overview of Pension Disputes and Resolution Frameworks
Understanding the nature, causes, and types of pension disputes
Common sources of conflict: benefits, contributions, transfers, and mismanagement
Dispute resolution objectives and guiding principles
Overview of national and international pension dispute mechanisms
Stakeholders in pension conflict management
The importance of fair and transparent resolution systems

Module 2: Legal and Regulatory Framework for Pension Dispute Resolution
National pension laws and their provisions for dispute handling
Regulatory roles and powers in managing pension disputes
The role of courts, tribunals, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) bodies
Statutory timelines, procedures, and appeal processes
Rights and obligations of pension members, trustees, and employers
Case law analysis: landmark pension dispute rulings

Module 3: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Techniques in Pension Cases
Mediation, arbitration, and conciliation: principles and differences
ADR as a cost-effective approach to pension disputes
Designing an internal ADR mechanism for pension schemes
Conducting mediation sessions and drafting settlement agreements
Ensuring impartiality, confidentiality, and compliance in ADR processesCase study: ADR success stories in pension fund dispute resolution

Module 4: The Role of the Pension Ombudsman
Functions and powers of a pension ombudsman
Establishing and operating an ombudsman office for pension disputes
Complaint handling procedures and resolution timelines
Investigations, findings, and enforcement of ombudsman decisions
Coordination with regulators, trustees, and courts
Promoting accessibility, fairness, and transparency in ombudsman services
Real-world examples: UK Pensions Ombudsman, South African Pension Funds Adjudicator

Module 5: Building an Effective Pension Dispute Resolution System
Developing internal complaint and grievance handling frameworks
Establishing escalation and feedback mechanisms
Using technology for dispute tracking and case management
Documentation, record keeping, and evidence management
Training staff in conflict prevention and communication
Group workshop: Designing a pension dispute handling policy
Course recap, practical simulation, and certification ceremony