Latest news

We’ve published results from a recent member survey which sought views on whether the Fund should continue or cease investing in Aerospace & Defence companies. The survey was conducted online with members between 4 - 22 September 2025. 

This month around 20,000 randomly selected members are receiving an invitation to participate in the investments survey. The survey will ask whether they think the Fund should continue investing in Aerospace & Defence companies.

As we look back on the past year, we're proud to share the progress we've made together. From strengthening our financial position to enhancing the services we provide, it’s been a year of meaningful change and improvements for the Fund and its members.

We have selected a research partner who will provide expert guidance and best practice in research methods. We expect to email members the survey later this summer. 

As agreed in its Committee meeting of 28 March 2025, the Avon Pension Fund will survey members on Aerospace & Defence investments. 

We will work with an independent research organisation to ensure expert guidance and best practice in research methods.  

All our active members’ Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pensions were revalued in April 2025. The value of the CARE pension increased by 1.7%, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figure for September 2024. 

Our deferred members have also had their total pension increased by 1.7%, again in line with September 2024 CPI.

In a public meeting in Bath on 28 March, the Avon Pension Fund Committee voted to maintain its current approach to investing in Aerospace & Defence. 

Now that the Committee has made a decision in principle, we will consult our members, which will inform the Committee’s final decision. 

We’re pleased to announce a £50m investment in local businesses, supporting regional growth. 

This investment represents the third in our local impact strategy, with significant progress already made in the areas of green energy and affordable housing.

On 28 March the Avon Pension Fund Committee will meet to review its aerospace and defence investments. 

This follows significant work which the Fund has already undertaken, following petitions in December and appeals from Bristol City Council to divest from aerospace and defence companies which supply Israel.

The pension fund has £18m or 0.3% of its £6 billion assets invested in such companies, which primarily supply NATO partners and the UK government.

We’ve received questions about our investments, particularly those in aerospace and defence industries. The Pension Committee on 13 December was also asked about our investments in companies whose products are used by the Israeli military. 

The Committee will review the statements and the legal and financial position, and consider the issue at a public Committee meeting in early 2025.