USS is the primary pension scheme in the United Kingdom for universities and higher education institutes. Academic employees are eligible for retirement and ill-health benefits, as well as life insurance. They are a hybrid pension plan; all of our members are enrolled in USS' Retirement Income Builder, which is a defined benefit plan. Their Advisory Committee provides assistance with challenging situations that emerge under the Scheme Rules. And, if the rules need to be changed, the Joint Negotiating Committee, which can also propose rule changes, is available when needed. They are also governed by The Pensions Regulator, whose responsibilities include safeguarding people's pension savings and improving the way workplace pension schemes are handled. The site is very clear which helps to understand the policies easily.