The Pensions Regulator (TPR) is shifting its enforcement approach from compliance-based oversight to a new approach focused on preventing harm before it happens and delivering the best outcomes for members.
It has published its new enforcement approach today, detailing the changes in its regulatory strategy.
The new approach sets out how the TPR will use supervision, engagement and enforcement powers to support TPR's ambition to become a more proactive, transparent, and outcomes-focused regulator.
It said the new approach signals a major shift from the current compliance-based strategy it has followed to an outcomes-based approach.
TPR said enforcement remains one part of a broader regulatory approach that combines earlier engagement, clear expectations and the full range of regulatory powers available to the organisation.
The regulator said it would make greater use of data and intelligence to identify emerging risks earlier, act before problems worsen and focus on improving outcomes for savers through better governance and administration. It said its enforcement will remain proportionate and minimise unnecessary burdens on well-run schemes.
TPR told trustees, advisers and employers to read the new enforcement approach to understand TPR's priorities and the higher standards introduced by the Pension Schemes Act 2026.
It is encouraging early engagement where issues arise but warned that where risks are not addressed it will take swift action and work with law enforcement partners where appropriate.
TPR has also announced it will publish data annually on its compliance and enforcement activities to demonstrate volumes, trends and the effectiveness of its interventions, with 2025/26 as its baseline for future years.
Nausicaa Delfas, chief executive of The Pensions Regulator, said: “Today, we are taking an important step with the launch of our strengthened enforcement approach. The approach is built around a clear principle: focus on the risks and harms that matter most to members.
“In practice, this means assessing every case on its impact, scale and complexity, so we can direct our resources to where they will make the greatest difference.”
She said it is a “shift away from ‘tick-box’ regulation, and towards an evidence-led system, focused on helping schemes and employers address issues earlier.”
She added: “We will be clear in our expectations of those we regulate, using the full range of regulatory tools available to us but the industry should be in no doubt that, where necessary, we are prepared to take tough action in pursuit of good member outcomes.”