Childcare Voucher Scheme
Further information is available on family friendly policies at Newcastle University.
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From 6 April 2011 there will be changes to the Childcare Voucher Scheme.
The purpose of these changes is to make the level of tax saving the same for all employees regardless of the tax rate that the individual pays.
The changes will only apply to you if you join the University’s scheme from 6 April 2011. If you have already registered with the University’s scheme on or before 5th April you will not be affected by these changes unless you leave the scheme, leave your employment or suspend your orders for 12 consecutive pay periods or more.
Further information is available in the Parent Information Pack available at Computershare Voucher Services. This must be read in conjunction with an Addendum prepared by Newcastle University (March 2011). This can be obtained as a word document, if required please contact Jane Elliott-Simm.
For further information or guidance on the scheme at Newcastle University please contact Jane Elliott-Simm, Reward Adviser, HR Policies and Projects Team on 0191 2226311.
What is the Childcare Voucher Scheme?
Newcastle University, in conjunction with Computershare Voucher Services, has introduced a system whereby part of your salary can be exchanged for childcare vouchers, as part of its family friendly initiative; this is known as salary sacrifice. Within specified limits, these vouchers are non-taxable and exempt from national insurance contributions and therefore represent a saving for employees who use them to purchase childcare.
How do I order?
On-line ordering now available. New parents joining the scheme may now register on-line at Computershare Voucher Services. The University’s Employer Scheme Reference Number is 10348.
As with any on-line system please be advised that in the interests of data security, and to avoid fraudulent transactions, you must not disclose your username or password (issued initially by CVS) to a third party. By joining online and agreeing to the associated terms and conditions, your username and password replace the use of a “wet” signature.
Amendments and Cancellations can also be made through the online system or via the telephone helpline number or by email.
Deadlines: Due to system changes new deadlines are now in operation. It is imperative that these dates are adhered to, to avoid any delay in the dispatching of vouchers.
| Parent / Carer deadline for new orders, amendments and cancellations. | Salary reduction to take place on: |
| Wednesday 9 May | 31 May |
| Thursday 7 June | 29 June |
| Monday 9 July | 31 July |
| Wednesday 8 August | 31 August |
| Thursday 6 September | 28 September |
| Tuesday 9 October | 31 October |
| Thursday 8 November | 30 November |
| Deadline for December to be confirmed. | 31 December |
Reimbursements:
As the vouchers attract tax and national insurance relief, it is extremely difficult to reimburse an employee after a salary deduction has been made, should the vouchers not be required. Members should therefore monitor their orders and make any necessary amendments or cancellations promptly. In the event that a reimbursement is required the employee may be charged a service charge fee (currently 2.5% of the voucher value + VAT).
FormsAgreement (Variation to Contract Form): This must be completed by new scheme members and returned to the HR Policies and Projects Team, Level 4, Human Resources, King’s Gate, Barras Bridge prior to a deduction from salary. Failure to return this form could result in non-acceptance of your order.
Contact Details for Computershare Voucher ServicesAll communication should be directed as follows. You are advised to obtain an acknowledgement of any transaction where possible.
Telephone: 0845 0021111Email: Computershare
Fax: 0845 111 0339
Visit: Computershare Voucher Services
Postal Address:
Computershare Voucher Services, Kuhlmann House, Lancaster Way, Fradley Park, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 8SX.