Pensions | what is a PODE and how can they help in mediation?
When couples divorce, pensions are often one of the biggest (and most complex) assets in the mix. They are also one of the most misunderstood.
In mediation, there can be a strong temptation to deal with pensions in a simplistic way: offsetting them against property, splitting them by headline values, or deciding to ‘leave them out’ altogether. While this might feel practical, it can lead to outcomes that are inaccurate, unfair, or simply not workable in the long term. This is where a Pensions on Divorce Expert (PODE) can make a real difference.
PODEs are accredited specialists who understand not just pensions, but how pensions operate in the context of divorce. Different pension schemes behave very differently, and the true value of a pension is rarely captured by a single figure. Without expert input, it’s easy to compare things that aren’t comparable — and make decisions that only look fair on the surface.
In mediation, a PODE can join joint sessions to help everyone understand the options in plain language. They don’t take sides or make decisions; instead, they support informed discussion making. Where a PODE analysis is needed, mediation pauses for a few weeks while the PODE prepares a tailored report, based on clear instructions and the goals and priorities of both individuals. Whether the aim is equality of income, capital balance, or future security - a PODE can model different scenarios and explain the implications of each.
Once their analysis is complete, the PODE can rejoin mediation to answer questions, clarify their advice, and help the mediation participants explore the options with confidence and importantly peace of mind because they know that the information they are discussing has had expert input.
Using a PODE isn’t about over-complicating mediation. It’s about avoiding costly mistakes, reducing uncertainty, and giving people the reassurance that their agreement is based on accurate information. When pensions are handled properly, mediation becomes not just quicker — but fairer, safer, and more future-focused.
The mediator will be able to explain whether a PODE report would be sensible in a given case. This is largely dependent on the combined value of the schemes held, the ages of each participant and whether the schemes are defined contribution or defined benefit schemes (The Report of the Pensions Advisory Group 2024).
