BLACK Country businesses can get free advice on launching workplace pension schemes under the government's new auto-enrolment project at a breakfast seminar in Stourbridge.

Leading Stourbridge financial services firm Prosperity Wealth is hosting the event, which will include a presentation from the independent pension regulator, on Friday March 27 at Stourbridge Rugby Club, Bridgnorth Road, Stourbridge, to help ensure companies understand what is needed to set up a scheme and help business bosses stay on the right side of the law.

Jeremy Leslie-Smith, industry liaison manager for the independent pension regulator, will join Prosperity Wealth director Matt Williams to explain details of the new pension laws.

Mr Williams said: "This is a rare opportunity for businesses to hear directly from the independent pension regulator to ensure they meet the requirements of auto-enrolment.

“We will ensure people understand how it works and ensure businesses get the most suitable and affordable scheme for their needs.

“All businesses will be receiving letters from the Pension Regulator so it applies to thousands of local companies.

“Places are limited so we would urge people to book their place as soon as possible to ensure they don't miss out."

Automatic pension enrolment was introduced by the government in October 2012 to big businesses and is now being rolled out to all businesses.

Under the scheme, part of a worker's salary automatically goes into a pension while employers are obliged to pay in as well, with the government adding a little extra through tax relief.

Mr Williams added: "We would urge businesses not to leave setting up an auto-enrolment scheme until the last minute as there are significant fines for businesses who do not have a scheme in place."

Places are limited for the free session which will see coffee and breakfast sandwiches served from 8.30am ahead of the presentation at 9am until 10am, which will be followed by questions and answers.

To book a place email Steve Davies at Prosperity Wealth at steve.davies@prosperitywealth.com or call 01384 390039.