February 2026, Welplan
Welplan regularly reviews the performance of the two discretionary trust funds that support ECIA employee benefits. Following a detailed analysis by the Corporate Trustees, the structure of the funds has been simplified.
These changes were developed in consultation with the ECIA. Both the ECIA Management Board and Council have supported them.
As a result of these changes, we are delighted to be able to offer you the same level of benefits at lower rates.
What this means for you
- The traditional surplus share distribution has been removed, resulting in lower weekly contribution costs
- The additional charge for employees aged over 65 has been removed completely.
Weekly contribution rates
| Package | Old Rate | New Rate |
| A – Death Benefit Only | £6.13 | £4.58 |
| B – Death Benefit, PTDB & Accidental Death | £6.94 | £4.76 |
| C – Sick Pay & Accidental Death | £4.51 | £2.96 |
| D – Sick Pay, PTDB & Accidental Death | £5.31 | £3.02 |
| E – All Benefits | £10.80 | £7.66 |
| H – Over 65 Supplement | £6.13 | £0.00 |
When the changes take effect
- The new rates apply from Period 6, starting 23 February 2026
- Employers will receive new scheme documents reflecting the updated calculations following this date. Our team will be in touch with each employer.
Surplus share distribution
- The final surplus share distribution will be for the 2025/26 financial year
- This will be paid in mid-2026 to eligible companies
If you have any questions, please contact us at ecischemes@welplan.co.uk.