7 Days is a weekly round up of developments in pensions, normally published on Monday mornings. We collate this information from key industry sources, such as the DWP, HMRC and TPR.

In this 7 Days

TPR publishes VFM framework overviews

On 11 August 2026, TPR published two overviews of the new VFM framework (the “Framework”). The first is aimed at trust-based DC schemes and is intended to provide practical information on the latest proposals and steps trustees can take to prepare for compliance with the Framework when it comes into force.

The second is a technical overview which explains the proposed VFM digital service which TPR will operate and how trustees and IGCs can prepare for data submission. The digital service (also referred to as the “VFM database”) will enable trustees and IGCs to submit VFM metric data for initial assessment and then publication purposes, access comparator data for assessments, and submit VFM assessment outcomes for public disclosure. TPR plans to continue to research and test the digital service throughout 2026 and 2027 to ensure it is robust and effective ahead of its planned launch in 2028.

The DWP confirmed on 10 August 2026 that the deadline for responses to the consultation on detailed proposals for the Framework has been extended to 15 September 2026. TPR expects to provide further communications on how schemes can start preparing after the consultation has closed.

PASA guidance on responding to member enquiries about dashboards

On 10 August 2026, PASA published new guidance to help administrators, providers and service centres respond clearly and consistently to member enquiries about pensions dashboards. The guidance provides a set of frequently asked questions and suggested responses. PASA intends the guidance to be treated as an “interim resource” to be “adapted by schemes, providers and administrators to reflect their own processes and the latest available information”.

SPP report on rethinking retirement wealth

The SPP has published “Home Truths: Rethinking Retirement Wealth”, a paper contributing to the debate on pensions adequacy by considering the role housing could play in retirement planning and how pensions and housing wealth might become more closely aligned in the future. It notes that, although pensions and housing are “closely linked in practice”, they are often treated separately in policy and decision-making. The paper identifies several areas for further consideration, including better integrating housing into retirement planning, improving guidance and advice, and the role of pension capital in boosting housing supply.

PSA26 explanatory notes published

The explanatory notes for the PSA26 have been published. The notes have been prepared by the DWP and aim to explain what each part of the PSA26 will mean in practice, provide background information on the development of policy and additional information on how the PSA26 will affect exiting legislation.