LONG-SERVING staff have been left worried about retirement plans at an Alloa-based national charity, according to UNISON.

The trade union has raised concerns over Scottish Autism plans to withdraw from the Falkirk Local Government Pension Scheme, saying it will have the worst affect on the longest-serving staff at the charity.

However, it is understood the good cause has received advice that continuing with the scheme could represent significant long-term financial risks and said contributions will remain available upon retirement.

On the other hand, UNISON explained that the move will see the employer cut contributions by almost 60 per cent while employees' costs will rise by almost 30 per cent.

It is not known what proportion of staff may be affected, but it is understood the vast majority of the workforce will not be impacted by the change as no new members have been added to it since 2017.

David O'Connor, UNISON regional organiser, said: "It is unacceptable that staff, some of whom have worked for Scottish Autism for 30 years, will see their pension income reduce by thousands of pounds.

"These are loyal workers who are committed to providing care to people with autism and their families, and then they are rewarded with pay cuts and their pensions slashed.

"UNISON is also concerned that the employer has been providing contradictory information to staff, saying on the one hand it is not about cost cutting, but then implying if the pension changes do not get pushed through then the future of the organisation is in jeopardy.

"UNISON have requested the employer explain their business case for the proposals and show their plans are legal."

He added last week: "So far, we have not received a reply and they seem to want to speed ahead without proper discussion and engagement with staff.

"UNISON continue to demand answers."

Directors at Scottish Autism say they have a responsibility to safeguard the future of the charity.

Dorry McLaughlin, chief executive, said: "This change will enable us to further review and develop our total reward package for all of our colleagues with a focus on our frontline workers.

"All pension contributions within the scheme will remain secure and available to colleagues upon retirement.

"We are committed to making sure colleagues who have been members of the Local Government Pension Scheme have access to all the information they need to be properly informed, to participate in dialogue and to be reassured on their past, current and future pension status.

"We have a responsibility to act to ensure a sustainable and secure future for Scottish Autism, so that we can continue to provide our specialist services for the autistic people we support."