Category Archives: Meeting Minutes

Notice of the Chevron UK Pensioners’ Association AGM 2026

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To be held at 11.00am 19 August 2026 at The Carpenters Arms, 12 Seymour Place, London W1H 7NE

Also over Zoom. The link will be emailed to members the day before. You do not need a camera to join by voice

320m/350yds from Marble Arch tube station

Click here for a map

Notes on Using Zoom

AGENDA (Provisional)

1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of Annual General Meeting held on 8th October 2025
3. Chairman’s Review of 2025/26 activities
4. Review of Accounts and Treasurer’s Report
5. Membership Report
6. Webmasters report
7. Election of new committee members
7a. Committee members term of office up for renewal :- TBC

8. Any other business

Members are invited to propose candidates, or themselves, for election to the Committee by completing the Nomination Form below and returning it to the secretary@cukpa.org.uk no later than 29th July 2026.

(Copy and paste the following into an email

Committee Nomination Form

Name (block capitals) ……………………………………………………………………..
Address …………………………………………………………………………………………..
Is nominated to serve as a Committee member of the Association
Proposer (block capitals) …………………………………………………….

Signed ———————————————————————–

Seconder (block capitals) …………………………………………………….

Signed ………………………………………………………………………………….

I agree to serve on the Committee if elected.

Signed (Nominee) ……………………………………………………………………..

CUKPA COMMITTEE MEETING WEDNESDAY  18 FEBRUARY 2026

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VIA ZOOM

Click the headings to open the section

DAH opened the meeting at 10.30am with the Safety Moment which focussed on care during wintry, icy conditions. The consequent national epidemic of potholes, prompted a discussion involving most of the meeting attendees.

There were 8 attendees:

Chris Simes (CS)           Steve Wilson (SW)         Alan Higgins (DAH)

Grace Shacklady (GS)    Neil Jones (NJ)      Alan Dennison (AD)     

Steve Ladle (SL) Andrew Nisbet (AGN)

Apologies received from Peter Young (PY) due to travel delays on a continental driving trip.                       

– DAH welcomed members to the meeting. He noted that Rail fares, prescription charges and fuel duty have been frozen, as well as pensioners

– held on 15 July 2025 at Grand Union Studios, Ladbroke Grove, London. Meeting minutes had been issued to committee members and were approved as a true record of the meeting. Proposed AD, seconded SL.

NJ summarised the Action items from the minutes of the 15 July 2025 committee meeting. Since they were of ongoing Association matters, he asked that the meeting discuss these items under the relevant subject headings later in the meeting. This proposal was accepted.

– This section of the meeting contained the bulk of the discussion around Chevron activities, communication with Chevron, the recently appointed Professional Corporate Sole Trustee (PCST) and the 2025 Pensions Bill.

Chevron Activity

DAH had received a comprehensive report of Chevron activities around the world from Mr Ewan Chesser. Mr Chesser is Global Engineering Management Advisor, Chevron UK. The report of the company’s international expansion projects and record production levels was encouraging. After a number of decades organised around business lines, the company is shifting towards functional lines. (Which many retirees may remember from the ‘60’s through the ‘90’s). The report stated that redundancies and staff relocations continued. The Aberdeen presence is now just 5 employees.

Action: DAH to thank Mr. Chesser for his report and ask whether he is still Chairman of Chevron Energy Limited (UK) and also the number of employees in Canary Wharf.

Living Standards Survey

This survey of pensioners was originally proposed at a meeting in London with Ashley Sanders, Pensions Manager, Simon Owens, then Chairman of the Trustees, DAH and NJ in January 2025. The survey was conducted through the year by Willis, Towers, Watson. The costs of the survey were covered by the plan and results presented in October 2025.

Respondents represented some 25% of the pensioner population. The results confirmed, as expected, that the Chevron Occupational and State pensions were critical in maintaining pensioner wellbeing. This being particularly true for older pensioners, highlighting the importance of pre-97 supplementations. The survey also noted the importance of continuing Company and Trustee communications.

The results will be used in future communications with the company in support of pensions increases.

Action: NJ to email the survey results presentation to committee members.

Professional Corporate Sole Trustee (PCST)

Following the dissolution of the Trustee Board during the 3rd quarter of 2025, Independent Governance Group (IGG) were appointed as PCST.

3 employees of IGG have been nominated as Chevron Plan Trustees. DAH and NJ met with 2 of these representatives, Mr. Dickon Best and Ms. Annabelle Hardiman on 19 November 2025 in London.

This introductory meeting was open and cordial. Mr. Best went to some length to stress their impartiality and intent to represent members. IGG has a large portfolio of clients. It will important to see how much time they can devote to the Chevron plan.

It was agreed to hold another meeting in the New Year.

Action: Future Trustee communication is a concern. DAH/NJ to contact Simon Owens and Ashley Sanders to discuss relevant mandated Trustee communications.

Communication with the Company

 A letter was sent to Ms. Harriet Wu at the end of 2025 thanking the company for the recent 3% supplementation to pre-97 pensions effective 1 November 2025. A further letter is being prepared to Ms. Wu supporting a similar increase late 2026 or early 2027.

Confirmation that she remains the appropriate US contact on pensions matters will also be requested.

The last meeting held with Ashley Sanders was in June last year. Unfortunately a meeting scheduled for later in the year had to be cancelled. The next meeting with AS is scheduled for early March 2026.

Action: DAH/NJ to report relevant points to committee after this meeting.

Status of Pensions Bill 2025

The Chairman asked Steve Ladle to lead this item of the meeting.

SL had issued a status update to the committee prior to the meeting to prime the discussion. SL summarised the current status with government.

Post meeting, SL has issued a further status note as follows:

Update from Our Campaign Manager Steve Ladle –

February 2026

It’s been a while since my last update in November but CUKPA has continued to be very busy.

Overall, 4 different letters have now been sent by a large number of you. I have been copied in on around 200 responses but hopefully there were a lot more sent on which I wasn’t copied on.  Many of your MP responses have indicated positive support whilst a number (generally from Labour members) got a response setting out the Government line. Just under 50 individual MPs have been contacted with some receiving letters from a number of members.  Lib Dems, Greens and SNP have been consistently supportive.

CUKPA has also written to the Pensions Minister (Torsten Bell) and his boss Pat McFadden and we have submitted a response to a Department of Work and Pensions consultation The Alliance has written to the Prime Minister and has also been very busy lobbying their MPs together with a face-to-face meeting with the Pensions Minister. 

The Bill is currently in the Lords before it comes back to the Commons for the final stage. Lord Davies and a few colleagues have been particularly vocal about the faults with the Bill and that it is being rushed through when it is not legally fit for purpose.

Unfortunately, however, to date no significant amendments of the type we are after have been accepted.

But we haven’t given up yet. I hope to shortly send out another letter for you all to send to your MP, to line up with when the Bill comes back to the Commons.  This will focus on our concerns about the proposals to allow scheme surpluses to be handed back to Employers which we feel has not been properly thought through at all and poses huge risks to Defined Benefit schemes like ours.

Thanks for all your help so far. Please continue to support us.

Alliance Facebook page link – https://www.facebook.com/groups/757211736207518/

Link to the progress of the Scheme Billhttps://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3982
  

Action: SL to prepare further letter to MP’s and article for the website.

The Chairman thanked SL for his continued leadership of this important matter.

Pensioner Meetings

DAH attended meetings of Texaco retirees late 2025 and separately Chevron retirees in early 2026, both in Aberdeen.

AGN, SL and NJ attended the London retirees lunch in October 2025.

Treasurer’s Report – Treasurer PY had offered his apologies for the meeting. NJ presented notes that PY had submitted prior to the meeting:

Current account balance is £9,080, lower than the last Association year end balance, mid 2025 of £9,730.

This is confirmation that inflationary cost increases in all areas have caused expenses to exceed income.

A number of members have increased their standing order subscription payment to £15. This request for an increase needs to be re-iterated to the membership.

Note: Post meeting, PY has stated that he has received push back from a number of members to the subscription increase.

Action: subscription increase to be mentioned again to members.

Committee Membership – NJ confirmed the committee membership to be 9 persons. Nominations and volunteers for committee membership are always welcome, new perspectives being important.

CS is the only member due to renew at the 2026 AGM. SC is willing to be re-elected.

Membership Status – CS presented the membership report which had been issued before the meeting.

Currently 787 members on file.

25 new members joined last quarter 2025.

New membership form on website working well for new members.

Tracking deceased members continues to be a problem as data not readily available. Reports are received twice yearly from Barnett Waddingham. Next report expected March this year.

Action: await receipt of next BW report.

Website Report

There was a short discussion about the website. Due to difficult family medical matters, AGN has unfortunately been unable to devote much time to the website recently. Important communications to members have been placed on the website.

Action: need to source backup and assistance for AGN on website matters.

Next Insight Issue – The next Insight Issue will be April 2026. Submissions to Editor AD by 3rd week of March.

Risk Register – AD reviewed those items in the risk register requiring discussion and updates.

Items due for review concerned the website around which there was brief discussion.

Post meeting: Alan, there was an item that required action involving Alan and myself. Regret I didn’t make a note. Can you remind me please. Thanks.

AGM to be held 19 August at the Medical Society, Chandos Street, London. Action: AD to contact the Medical Society to book room

– to be held 8 July 2026 in London.

Action: AD to investigate possible locations.

              The meeting closed at 12.30 hours.

CUKPA AGM 2025 Report and Minutes

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CHEVRON UK PENSIONERS’ ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Medical Society of London, Chandos Street, London W1G 9EB

11.00am 8 October 2025

 MINUTES OF MEETING

After welcoming all attendees to the meeting, the Chairman (D Alan Higgins) commenced proceedings with a safety moment. As in the previous AGM, he stressed the need for care with the onset of Autumn when using garden machinery and to take extra care against slips, trips and falls with wet conditions underfoot.

The Chairman asked the meeting to remember those friends and colleagues we have lost during the last 12 months. A short moment of silence then followed.

AT THE VENUE:

DAH introduced the committee members in turn.

D Alan Higgins (DAH)      Alan Dennison (AD)         Andrew Nisbet (AGN)     Grace Shacklady (GS)     

Chris Simes (CS)               Steve Wilson (SW)            Steve Ladle (SL)

Mr. & Mrs. Malcolm Seedhouse                

VIA ZOOM:

Peter Young (PY)           Neil Jones (NJ)        Doug Reoch       Karen Petrie        William Martin

David Low                     Stewart James         Ted Williams      Simon Humphries   David Betts

Alex MacMaster         Charles Abernethy   Stewart Cusden      Seamus O’Connor    Alan Leiper

Jeremy Nelson             Gordon Smith           Anastasis Pittiarides          Brian Spittlehouse                     

Fergal Hayes                Ian MacDonald          Jamie Newell        Don Hogan                  

Peter Brockett            Derek Smith

The minutes of the AGM held on 1 October 2024, summarised on the website and dated 26 August 2025 (PDF) were approved unanimously, proposed by SW seconded by AD.  Subsequent to the meeting a hard copy has been  signed for the record, by  Vice-Chairman (NJ), as being a true account of that meeting .

MATTERS ARISING

There were 2 items of ‘other business’ still in progress at the time of the 2024 AGM. The status of these was discussed by NJ.

Firstly, the changes to the Constitution  providing for online attendance and voting at an AGM have been completed and are recorded on the website.

Secondly, from an earlier question by Steve Wilson, it was reported that following the completion of the acquisition of Hess by Chevron, there has been no impact on the Chevron UK pension plan. The Hess UK pension arrangements have remained entirely separate.

The Chairman (DAH) gave the meeting a review of the high level of activity since the last AGM.        He emphasised the independence of the Association (from the company) and outlined the increased level of contact made with Company personnel since the last AGM.  DAH also outlined the contacts made directly with the Trustees and political and regulatory bodies.

3 online meetings have been held with Mr. Ashley Sanders. 2 meetings with representatives of the Trustees and letters written to MP’s, pensions lobby groups and the Pensions Regulator. The common themes have been the continued inequitable treatment of pre-97 pension payments and the role of Trustees, particularly under a move to a Professional Corporate Sole Trustee (PCST). These were the main discussion points with Ms. Harriet Wu, Chevron San Ramon, in mid July.

DAH reported that at one of the meetings with Trustee representatives, the ‘Living Standards and Wellbeing Survey’ was initiated. The response to this survey, conducted through the summer of this year was very encouraging. There were 1184 responses from pensioners, including Association members. It is hoped the results, when available, will provide strong support for future discretionary increases, particularly since there will be no such increase in 2025.

The company announced its intention to appoint a PCST in the spring of 2025. This came as a total surprise and immediately raised all manner of questions as to how this would operate.  International Governance Group (IGG) have been appointed to be the PCST and 3 of their representatives are nominated as Trustees. The meeting was advised by Alan Dennison, a former Member Nominated Director, that the existing Trustee body has been de-commissioned. He also advised that 2 former Trustees will continue in their role, with IGG, until the Trust Deed Articles are amended. Committee representatives have met with company staff and now, former Trustees on this matter. Some level of reassurance of impartiality from IGG has been received, who appear to recognise they have responsibilities to all class of pensioners and stakeholders.

In addition to contacts with Ms. Harriet Wu, the Association wrote for the second time to Mr. Mike Wirth Chairman and CEO of Chevron. The point of this letter was to express the extreme disappointment, even anger, at the lack of a discretionary increase in 2024, as evident at the 2024 AGM. This at a time when the fund had a surplus of some £300 million and the company had announced a 50% contribution reduction for employees and a suspension of company contributions to the plan. A response to this letter was received from Ms. Anne Manha, General Manager Benefits, Houston, on behalf of Mr. Wirth. This response, although courteous, stated company justifications only and made no recognition of pensioner hardships or inequitable treatment.

DAH recognised the activities being undertaken by new committee member Steve Ladle in support of more equitable treatment of pre-97 pension payments. He has been working directly with pensions lobby groups, drafting letters to send to MP’s and attending meetings as the 2025 Pensions Bill passes through consultation phases.

DAH concluded his report by mentioning meetings with pensioner groups in Aberdeen, which has led to increased Association membership. He reviewed the roles of the individual committee members and expressed his appreciation to all meeting attendance for their participation and support.

He also mentioned the need to consider a small increase to subscriptions to cover principally increased travel costs. This to be discussed further under the Treasurer’s Report.   

He emphasised that, although the present Committee is working well, new members are always needed and any volunteers would be most welcome – no experience or knowledge of pensions necessary!

Presented by AD on behalf of Treasurer Peter Young who had offered apologies and was available online to answer questions

The accounts, as at 30 June 2025 were reviewed and differences to prior year were noted.

  1.  Another successful year, financially. Healthy funds balance of £9,731.55
  2. Expenses increased during the year due to a significant increase in activity and associated travel costs.
  3. Income increased from prior years to £5,486.
  4. Resultant net deficit of £1,395.10 for the year.

It was noted that due to cost increases in all areas and a stable level of income, a proposal was tabled to increase the annual subscriptions of those currently paying £10 per annum, to £15 per annum. Proposed CS, seconded SL and approved by the meeting.

Alan Dennison for Peter Young

The Accounts and Treasurer’s Report were unanimously approved (proposed CS; seconded SL)

Summary of report by Membership Secretary Chris Simes (CS) 

  1. There are 581 email subscribers on the database
  2. There are currently 775 members on the database
  3. There are 167 copies of Insight being delivered by post
  4. There have been 37 new members in 2025. Many of these following meetings held by the Chairman in Aberdeen.

                Other points to note:

  1. All new members have selected to receive Insight by email.
  2. Identified multiple entries on database for members and marked for deletion.
  3. Several routine requests by family members for membership status.
  4. Member email updates in progress.
  5. A number of members have asked about their payment status.

Andrew Nisbet presented the recent activity related to the website and membership database, summarised as follows:

  1. AN reviewed the history and content of the website with particular recognition of the huge contribution made by Dave Poulter. (Sadly deceased). The membership management system had become outdated, mailing requirements expensive and overall, an inefficient means of communicating with members.
  2. An updated online membership system was created and implemented in 2022. Use of the new system identified a number of problems areas: correct current email addresses, payment of subscriptions, distribution of the Insight newsletter, accurate recording of deceased members.
  3. The use of Mailchimp as an email management system, has greatly improved efficiency in communication with members, reducing surface mail costs, managing compliance and anti spamming requirements. Mailchimp also facilitates surveys and polls such as the recent survey concerning the recently announced move to a PCST.
  4. A shared Zoom licence has resulted in reduced committee meeting costs and increased participation in the AGM, which reached a record 36 attendees this year, 24 online.
  5. A ‘zoomy coffee morning’ was also held. It is planned to hold another such informal online chat between members in the near future

DAH was pleased to announce that a new committee member, Mr. Steve Ladle was stepping up for election. Steve has already been very active with the initiative of members writing to their MP’s, CUKPA re-joining the HPPA Alliance and with attending consultation meetings concerning the 2025 Pensions Bill. This in relation to fairer treatment of pre-97 pensioners which is completely aligned with CUKPA objectives. DAH expressed his appreciation for Steve’s leadership on this subject.

DAH formally proposed SL for committee membership, seconded by NJ. Unanimously approved.

Following the end of his previous 3 year appointment term, committee member Alan Dennison was offering himself for re-election. Unanimously approved by the AGM.

These actions result in there being 9 committee members for the forthcoming year.

1. Mr. Seamus O’Connor introduced himself as a recipient of an Irish Gulf pension. DAH expressed his appreciation for Mr. O’Connor’s attendance at the meeting. Mr. O’Connor, in response to earlier comments concerning inflationary increases to insurance company annuity payments, stated that former Irish Gulf pensions, now paid by an insurance company, were subject to small inflationary increases. On the death of the annuitant, an element of the payment went to the surviving spouse. Mr. O’Connor to pass further information to DAH.

 2. Mr. Doug Reoch raised the matter of IGG as the company providing PCST services to the plan in future, particularly the ownership of this company. Doug expressed concerns that the ownership of IGG appeared vague and subject to frequent change. AD stated that he understood that the company had conducted its due diligence properly and had selected IGG from a list of some 10 potential providers. He re-stated his view that the 3 individuals assigned to the Chevron UK plan appeared to be professional, knowledgeable and bringing an equitable approach to the assignment.

 3. Mr. Macdonald asked if the Trustee has the responsibility to recommend pension increases. AD responded that the Trustee can recommend increases, but it is not an obligation.

4.On the subject of pensions increases, particularly pre-97, Mr. Stewart Cusden referenced CUKPA’s letter to the Pensions Regulator and asked if there had been a response. He also asked if the committee had considered contacting the media about the matter. NJ provided comments as to the company’s reaction to this letter, which was one of annoyance. DAH stated that an acknowledgement had been received from the Regulator’s office. He also said that the committee had not considered contacting the media, but would do so in relation to other pensions matters currently in progress. SL stated that there were 12 companies in the HPPA Alliance, many of whose pensioners were in a much poorer situation than Chevron’s regarding discretionary pre-97 increases.

DAH called on members to consider submitting articles of interest for the newsletter and again, their candidacy as committee members.

The Chairman thanked all participants, in person and online, for attending the meeting in what was a record ‘turn out’ overall.

The meeting closed at 12.50 hrs.

Committee Meeting Tuesday 15th July 2025

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CUKPA COMMITTEE MEETING

TUESDAY  15 JULY 2025     

Grand Union Studios, Ladbroke Grove, London W10 5AD

MINUTES OF MEETING

1.SAFETY MOMENT –  DAH opened the meeting at 10.30am with the Safety Moment which focussed on care when using garden machinery. Also, taking care when stepping backwards off raised surfaces. We may believe we are safe workers. Thought and care is always required.

2.PRESENT/APOLOGIES –  

There were 7 attendees:

Chris Simes (CS)           Steve Wilson (SW)         Alan Higgins (DAH)                      

Peter Young (PY)     Neil Jones (NJ)      Alan Dennison (AD)      Steve Ladle (SL)

Apologies received from Andrew Nisbet (AN) and Grace Shacklady (GS)                                                                                                                                                                                     

3.WELCOME – DAH welcomed members to the meeting and thanked Alan Dennison for making the arrangements. DAH welcomed new committee member Steve Ladle to his first ‘in person’ meeting. Steve has already done much work in relation to the Pensions Bill 2025 and CUKPA representations to MP’s. DAH mentioned that the Agenda had been necessarily modified since its email issue. Meeting secretary (NJ) issued revised paper copies.

4.MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING – held on 19 February 2025 via zoom. Meeting minutes had been issued to committee members and were approved as a true record of the meeting. Proposed CS, seconded SW.

5.MATTERS ARISING –

NJ reviewed the Action items from the minutes of the 19 February committee meeting. Ongoing matters to be discussed under relevant subject heading later in the meeting.

Points to note:

  • DAH had requested that a sub-group review the format and style of the Insight newsletter. NJ to contact other sub-team members AD, CS, SL to arrange a review meeting. Due to other matters taking precedence, principally the Trustee changes, this didn’t happen.
  • Action – NJ to initiate future work on this.
  • It was agreed that the AGM would be held on 8 October 2025 and that a venue needed to be selected and booked. Post meeting, AD had booked the Medical Society of London, Chandos Street.

6 & 7.CHEVRON MATTERS – There was a considerable amount to discuss under this item, principally around the Trustee changes and Association contacts with Trustees and the company.

PLAN TRUSTEE

The company had announced that the existing Trustee Board would be replaced by a ‘Professional Corporate Sole Trustee’ and the current board disbanded. AD, as both an existing Trustee and CUKPA committee member, was able to provide the meeting with further available information. The company has appointed a UK company: Independent Governance Group (IGG) to become this sole Trustee.

Post meeting, AD, has submitted the following summary:

‘IGG – AD informed the committee that IGG have officially been appointed as the new PCST, contracts are still being drafted and due diligence carried out. The trustees had a meeting with the three representatives of IGG and a sense of comfort gained. They were asked a number of probing questions by AD, Stewart Wright and the chair Simon Owens and the response was favourable ie their absolute priority is the plan and the members. The trustee named will be known as Ross Trustees Ltd., there are a number of senior personnel changes in the current board as Beth Claar is retiring in August to be replaced by Steve Winerman. Matt Wright has opted to take advantage of the early leaver process and his place on the board will be taken by Ross Trustee Ltd. which comprise of Dickon Best, Claire Kember and Annabelle Hardiman. There will be changes to the CEL (Chevron Energy Limited) board members which are to be confirmed.’

ALLIANCE GROUP REPORT. WRITING TO YOUR MP

The discussion on this subject was led by Steve Ladle who has been very active in lobbying his MP on various pensions matters as committee reviews and the Pensions Bill 2025 make their way through the political process. This has also involved indirect contact with Mr. Torsten Bell, Minister for Pensions.

SL has also been engaged on an individual basis with Hewlett Packard Pension Alliance (HPPA), a group to which CUKPA has previously belonged and are making representations to the Work and Pensions Select Committee and the Minster for Pensions.

SL had prepared a letter which individual committee members were able to submit to their own MP’s.

The focus in these representations is around the role of Trustees to support plan members and the fairness of any fund surplus distribution. Such distribution is still seen to rest at the sponsoring company’s discretion.

Action: SL agreed to update the ‘individual’s letter’ to MP’s with current views, for CUKPA member submission.

 On this same general subject, CUKPA had written to the Pensions Regulator concerning the move to a PCST, mentioned earlier in these minutes, raising major concerns about the role and control of such a Trustee body. An acknowledgement has been received. This action clearly hit a nerve within the company based on comments received.

LIVING STANDARDS & WELL BEING SURVEY

At the meeting DAH and NJ attended between Simon Owens (Trustee) and Ashley Sanders (Company) on 22 January 2025 and reported at the February committee meeting, the idea of such a survey was raised and agreed. Subsequently, Towers Watson, a professional survey company, have been engaged to prepare a survey questionnaire and issue via the plan administrator Barnett Waddingham for member’s response. At the time of writing, this survey is being sent to members.

MEETINGS WITH THE COMPANY

NJ met with Ms. Harriet Wu, company appointed trustee, in Canary Wharf on 19 June 2025. DAH and NJ met with Ashley Sanders via MSTeams on 24 June 2025.

Both these meetings focussed on feedback and observations from the Trustee meeting held with IGG on 17 June 2025. Comments were consistent with those reported by AD earlier in these minutes. Attendees were reassured that IGG stated their views that their role was to support the Plan and its members. IGG were very aware of current review work relating to the 2025 Pensions Bill.

Both DAH and NJ used these meetings to continue to press for pensions increases, particularly the discretionary pre-97 elements.

PENSIONER MEETINGS

DAH attended a meeting of Chevron retirees on 19 June 2025 in Aberdeen.

Texaco Aberdeen retirees plan to hold a meeting in early November at which CUKPA will be represented.

The London Texaco retirees meet on 17 October 2025 at the RAF Club Piccadilly. Again, CUKPA will be represented.

8.ASSOCIATION MATTERS

TREASURER’S REPORT – Treasurer PY presented interim accounts up to 30 June 2025 with comments as follows:

  • Subscriptions appear stable. However a reduction in annual Standing orders is masked by a one time increase due to payment of arrears.
  • Travel expenses are significantly higher due to increased activity and fare increases.
  • Insight postage costs now almost double the printing charges.
  • IT costs increased due to the one-off purchase of a laptop.
  • Currently running a deficit for the year of c. £1,400. Unlikely to be sustainable. It was agreed that members currently paying £10 would be asked to increase their subscription to £15. It was noted that subscriptions had not been increased for many years.
  • Overall healthy balance of funds c. £9,700.

In the absence of a formal auditor being sourced, AD and CS agreed to conduct another review of accounts in lieu of such audit.

Action – AD, CS to review accounts when appropriate.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP – The Nomination form for Mr. Steve Ladle to join the committee was completed, proposed and seconded. His appointment will be ratified at the AGM. NJ advised that the only other current member to be re-appointed at the AGM was Mr. Alan Dennison.

MEMBERSHIP STATUS – CS had issued an interim membership report prior to the meeting. The Association database shows 833 current members. There have been 18 new members in 2025 to date. All new members have elected to take Insight electronically. Tracking deceased members is a problem as data is not readily available.

Action – DAH to attend this year’s Texaco retirees lunch in Aberdeen and further promote Association business and benefits to membership.

Action – CS, PY to work on deceased member information.

WEBSITE REPORT

AN had offered his apologies for the meeting and had issued an email report to committee members, which was summarised to the meeting by PY.

This report covered the following main subject items:

Member survey regarding Sole Trustee

Website Review

Automated update of membership payments

Website recovery, support and backup

NEXT INSIGHT ISSUE  – The next Insight Issue will be late October. Submissions to Editor AD by end September/early October.

RISK REGISTER – AD reviewed those items in the risk register requiring discussion and updates.

One new item was identified: ‘failure to communicate with new trustee’.

Action – At the appropriate time, DAH/NJ to contact the new trustee and introduce CUKPA.

9.ANY OTHER BUSINESS –

DAH to issue updated committee member contact list.

This has been done, however a few minor adjustments remain.

AGM – this year’s AGM will be held on 8 October 2025 at the Medical Society of London, Chandos Street

10. NEXT MEETING –To be held in February 2026 via zoom.

Post meeting, the meeting is proposed for Wednesday 18 February 2026

              The meeting closed at 13.30 hours.

COMMITTEE MEETING WEDNESDAY  19 FEBRUARY 2025

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CUKPA COMMITTEE MEETING

WEDNESDAY  18 FEBRUARY 2025

VIA  ZOOM      

MINUTES OF MEETING

1.SAFETY MOMENT –  DAH opened the meeting at 10.30am with the Safety Moment. NJ raised the subject of extra care needed when driving around areas of road works and inattention of other drivers to direction signage. DAH  mentioned the need for special care when walking in wintry, slippery conditions.

2.PRESENT/APOLOGIES –  

Andrew Nisbet (AN)          Chris Simes (CS)           Steve Wilson (SW)

Alan Higgins (DAH)             Peter Young (PY)          Neil Jones (NJ)

Grace Shacklady (GS)        Alan Dennison (AD)    Steve Ladle (SL)

Full attendance. No Apologies   

3.WELCOME – DAH welcomed members to the meeting, particularly Steve Ladle as a new member and therefore as observer for this meeting. He asked Steve to prepare a short biography for the next Insight newsletter. Grace stated she would only be able to attend for a short period. DAH expressed the committee’s sincere condolences for the recent passing of her husband Nick and extended very best wishes.

4.MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING – held on 25 July 2024 at the Mercure Hotel, Paddington in London. Proposed AD, Seconded SW.   The minutes were approved as a true record of the meeting .

5.MATTERS ARISING –

Action items from the 25 July 2024 meeting were noted, most of which would be subject of further discussion during this meeting.

CUKPA Constitution. The proposed changes to the Constitution relating to online attendance and voting at General Meetings had been presented and approved at the 2024 AGM.

ACTION – DAH to forward the reference file to NJ for modification and update to the website by AGN.

Post meeting, this matter has been concluded.

Caltex Association Members. DAH stated that he had continued conversations with Mr Ashley Sanders (AS) and Ms. Harriet Wu concerning contact with Caltex pensioners. This will be an ongoing activity.

6.CHEVRON MATTERS – DAH discussed the meetings held between CUKPA and the Company since the last committee meeting. These have included a number of online Teams meetings with Ashley Sanders (AS), one of which Ms. Harriet Wu also attended. Two face meetings were also held, one with AS, the other with AS and Mr. Simon Owens, Chairman of the Trustee board. It is understood this is the first time such a meeting has been held with the Trustee Chairman.

The Association had written to Chairman and CEO Mr. Mike Wirth and to the Chairman of the Trustees, principally concerning the fund surplus and it’s equitable distribution of benefit to stakeholders, or lack thereof. Meetings with the company focussed on this matter, noting that the Company and Active members had received a benefit. Pensioners had not, despite a recommendation being made for a modest increase to pre ’97 payments. The fund remains in healthy surplus.

All meetings were professional and cordial. Business conditions and performance being quoted as the reason for Company resistance to pensions increases.

Other matters discussed during this meeting included Linkedin articles about pre-’97 payments and comparative increases to other oil company pensions schemes.

ACTION – Further online meetings scheduled with the Company.

7. INSIGHT REVIEW  –  DAH noted that the format of the Insight newsletter had largely remained unchanged since its introduction. He proposed that a team be set up to review the structure and make recommendations. The team will be comprised of: AD, CS, SL, NJ.

AN suggested that the design includes elements that can be reflected on the website eg Logo, type style

ACTION – NJ to contact team members to arrange an initial online meeting.                

8.ASSOCIATION MATTERS –

TREASURER’S REPORT – Treasurer PY presented interim accounts up to 31 January 2025 with comments as follows:

  • Subscriptions remain stable. Income almost identical with that for the same period last year.
  • Counter credits increased. This due to members ‘catching up’ with unpaid prior year subscriptions.
  • Travel expenses have increased over recent years and are at pre-covid levels. Hotel and transport costs have increased as has the frequency of meetings with the Company.
  • Insight postage costs now exceed printing charges.
  • Currently running a deficit for the year of c. £1,500.
  • Overall healthy balance of funds c. £9,600.

PY reported that the local auditor he had hoped to use for the Association’s accounts was no longer available. AD and CS agreed to review and verify the accounts as they have done in the past.

No current issues with account holders Barclays Bank.

ACTION – AD, CS to review accounts when appropriate.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP – The committee unanimously endorsed Mr. Steve Ladle as a new member. His membership will be ratified at the 2025 AGM.

MEMBERSHIP STATUS – AD had issued an interim membership report prior to the meeting. The Association database shows 822 current members. AD noted a number of new members from Aberdeen following DAH and NJ attending a Texaco retirees lunch meeting in Aberdeen in November 2024 where the work of the Association was discussed. All new members have elected to take Insight electronically.

The need for continued focus on new members was discussed.

ACTION – DAH to attend Chevron retirees lunch in Aberdeen and promote Association business.

CONSTITUTION AMENDMENTS – Discussed above under Matters Arising. No further action required.

RISK REGISTER – The risk register was discussed and the reason for its introduction. It was confirmed that the register is an important tool to help manage committee responsibilities.

The register needs to be reviewed and updated. AD agreed to take the lead on future register reviews.

Outstanding items relating to the website regarding renewal of the domain name, hosting and maintenance to be addressed by AN with other committee members.

ACTION – AD to issue current register to committee members as a first step. If not before, register to be reviewed at the mid year committee meeting.

Post meeting: AD has issued current risk register to committee members.

9.ANY OTHER BUSINESS –

WEBSITE – AGN gave a full update of website activities. A team review had taken place October 2024 with a number of actions outstanding.

  1. Risk Register items as above
  2. A review of website content was commenced in October to ensure it was up to date and relevant. Suggestions from team members to be collated and presented for review by DH and NJ in conjunction with the website strategy and page usage statistics
  3. Membership includes 48 members who are Suspended as contact details are out of date, meaning either or both surface and email addresses are invalid. A campaign to contact as many as possible by the provided phone number might elicit some updates to restore service to these members
  4. The proposal to automate subs payment updates from the electronic bank statements has some technical issues that need to be addressed before it can commence. AN is working on a solution.
  5. With the loss of Dave Poulter data about deceased members previously loaded into the OBITS database stopped. It was agreed in the website review that OBITS was likely in breach of GDPR rules and it has been removed from the website. However, the data is useful for updating the membership system. This data is now available again from BW and AN will forward the spreadsheets to Membership Sec and Treasurer.
  6. Retiree News is now distributed electronically via the BW website. AN will explore possibility to download this for publication on our website as before.

NEXT INSIGHT – The next Insight issue is scheduled for April this year.

ACTION – Articles to AD by 3rd week March please.

AGM POST MEETING ITEM – During the meeting the date for the 2025 AGM was not discussed. This should have been set for mention in the next newsletter. Following this meeting the date of Wednesday 8 October has been proposed.

No objections received. AGM will be held on 8 October 2025.

ACTION: Venue to be agreed and booked.

DAVE POULTER – DAH asked that the next newsletter contain individual memories of Dave, who made a huge contribution to pensions matters over many years.

ACTION – Those that have known Dave well and worked closely with him to submit brief recollections/memories for the newsletter.

10. NEXT MEETING – To be an attended meeting in London, 11.00am Thursday 15 July 2025.

ACTION – AD agreed to propose suitable venues for the meeting. This has been done and a venue needs to be selected.

The meeting closed at 12.20 hours.

CUKPA AGM Report and Minutes 1st October 2024

Posted on by

CHEVRON UK PENSIONERS’ ASSOCIATION

                                                  ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

              Held at The Medical Society, Chandos Street, London W1G 9EB

                                                           1 October 2024

                                                     MINUTES OF MEETING

The meeting commenced at 11.00 am.  The Chairman (D Alan Higgins) welcomed everyone to the meeting, thanking all for their attendance. He opened with a Safety Moment concerning care this Autumn when using garden machinery and to take care against slips, trips and falls with wet conditions underfoot.

The Chairman asked the meeting to remember those friends and colleagues we have lost during the last 12 months, particularly Dave Poulter.  Dave had provided years of dedicated service to Chevron pensioners as both a CUKPA committee member and Trustee of the Pension Plan. A short moment of silence then followed.

PRESENT:

AT THE VENUE:

D Alan Higgins (DAH)      Alan Dennison (AD)         Neil Jones (NJ)                   Doug Reoch (DR)

Andrew Nisbet (AGN)     Grace Shacklady (GS)      Chris Simes (CS)                Carmen Davis    

VIA ZOOM:

Steve Wilson (SW)           Chris Mallinson                 Jeremy Nelson                   Alexander MacMaster

Simon Hughes                   Steve Ladle                          Willie Tan                             Fergal Hayes

David Way

The Chairman outlined minor changes to the Agenda order and the inclusion of a Webmaster’s Report.

1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE:

Peter Young (PY)               Nick Burrell         Peter Brockett

2.MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – Held on 12th September 2023

The minutes of the AGM held on 12th September 2023, and summarised in the Autumn 2023 Newsletter, were approved unanimously (proposed by DR; seconded by AD) and hard copy signed by  Vice-Chairman (NJ) as being a true record of that meeting.

MATTERS ARISING

A discussion followed about the status of the Plan which confirmed the committee’s understanding that the Plan remains open to new members. Also, that although there has been consideration of a ‘buy-in’ to part of the plan commitments by insurance companies, there is no intention to implement this at the present. Similarly, a ‘buy-out’, where the Plan would be taken on completely by an insurance company, is not under current consideration.

3. SUMMARY OF CHAIRMAN’S REPORT  2024

The Chairman (DAH) gave the meeting a review of 2023/24 activities since the last AGM.    He emphasised the independence (from the company) of the Association, and outlined, along with NJ, various contacts made with Company personnel since the last AGM.  DAH also outlined the activities of the committee over the past year and the committee meetings that had taken place. He reviewed the roles of the individual committee members. He again referenced the huge contribution made by Dave Poulter as committee member and Trustee. The Association was represented by DAH and AGN at Dave’s funeral on 9 September in Brentwood, Essex.

He emphasised that, although the present Committee is working well, new members are always needed and any volunteers would be most welcome – no experience or knowledge of pensions necessary!

Under this agenda item, there was lively debate about the Company’s recent rejection of a proposal to award a 3% supplementation to pre-1997 pensions. It was noted that the Plan is 120% funded and there is a surplus of some £360mm. The Company and Active members have taken benefit from this surplus. The meeting was disappointed, even annoyed, that pensioners seemed to be receiving inequitable treatment. The Chairman advised the meeting that the Association would be taking this matter to the highest levels within the Company

The Chairman concluded his report with thanks to the committee for its work over a busy year.

4. REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS AND TREASURER’S REPORT

Presented by NJ on behalf of Treasurer Peter Young who had offered apologies.

The accounts were reviewed and differences to prior year were noted.

            TREASURER’S REPORT

  1.  Another successful year, financially. Healthy funds balance of £11,156.65.
  2. Expenses increased this year due to increase in activity and cost increases.
  3. Income increased from prior years to £5,290.
  4. Resultant net deficit of £663.72 for the year.
  5. Slight increase in paying members from 604 to 623.
  6. Ex gratia payments of £125 from Barclays Bank.

Peter Young

The Accounts and Treasurer’s Report were unanimously approved (proposed DR; seconded GS)

The meeting expressed thanks and appreciation to the Treasurer’s (PY) tenacity in dealing with Barclays Bank who had been making unreasonable information requests in a thinly veiled attempt to close the account. After numerous exchanges and 2 pointed letters to Barclay’s leadership by the Treasurer, the matter was closed and an apology received from Barclays, plus ex gratia payment of £125 as compensation.

5A. MEMBERSHIP REPORT

Presented by Alan Dennison (AD)

  1. Mailchimp Database and email system fully implemented with 501 subscribers.
  2. 678 current members on file (down 69 on last year) .
  3. 178 copies of Insight will be delivered by post (down 86 from last year and a saving for CUKPA).
  4. 45 retirees sadly deceased from Oct 2023 to March 2024 (down 8 from last year)
  5. 4 new members joined to date this year.
  6. New membership form on website working well for all new subscribers.
  7. Group email database set up and working well.
  8. Several help requests received: new membership applications, pension supplementation, pension projection queries, lost member details, death of member/spouse notifications.

5B.  WEBMASTER’S REPORT

Andrew Nisbet presented the recent activity related to the website, summarised as follows:

  1. The new membership system was helping gather up members whose payments had lapsed for whatever reason and reinstate them, increasing income.
  2. Reduced the number of hard copies of Insight being sent to non paying members over the last 18 months. Considerable cost savings in printing and postage.
  3. Looking to make better use of our member network by introducing some socially oriented activities to supplement regional retiree lunches. This follows the successful inaugural Zoomy Coffee Morning last June with over a dozen participants. Plans include:

                   Another Zoomy coffee morning in November and to make it a regular event.

                   To have some more formal talks by visiting speakers with discussions, quiz                        sessions, etc.

                   Allow members to sign up for these online.

                   Look for some members to organize more local events that we can facilitate and              promote.

                   Provide the ability for members to add a photo and brief profile information to                 their membership record, Linkedin style, to get in touch with work colleagues.

                   Provide the ability for members to send stories for publication via the website                  and for inclusion in Insight.

6A.ELECTION OF NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Doug Reoch stood down as a committee member. DAH thanked Doug for his commitment over a number of years, particularly in his role as Insight Editor.

Steve Wilson had previously offered himself as a committee member and had been co-opted earlier in the year. Steve, proposed by NJ and seconded by DAH, was unanimously voted onto the committee.

6B. RE-ELECTION OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Following the end of their previous 3 year appointment terms, committee members Alan Higgins, Andrew Nisbet, Peter Young, Grace Shacklady and Neil Jones were seeking re-election.

All five members were duly re-elected for a further 3 year term.

The committee will be comprised of 8 members for the forthcoming year.

7. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

The first item under this section concerned changes to the Constitution.

The proposed changes had been raised at last year’s AGM and the text of these changes issued for member comment in the Spring 2024 Insight edition. No comments or objections had been raised.

Since the changes were mainly to cover online AGM attendance, the point was made at the meeting of the need for visible evidence of such online attendees.

In order not to delay the implementation of the necessary changes, the Vice Chairman/Meeting Secretary (NJ) asked that the meeting approve the proposed changes subject to minor relevant adjustments to the text, (now shown in red below) and subsequent committee approval. The meeting approved this course of action.

The changes to the Constitution will now read as follows:

Item 4a. That an Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall be held not earlier than 1 July and not later than 15 December each year.

Item 4c. That General Meetings will be held in person with provision for visual online attendance (new item).  

Existing item 4c becomes 4d.

Item 5. QUORUM – At any General Meeting the Quorum shall be seven (7) members attending, attending either in person or visually online.

Item 7. COMMITTEE PROCEDURES  – The financial year is 1 July to 30 June the following year.

Following committee endorsement, these changes will be made to the Constitution.

Second item of AOB was a question from SW of the impact of the Hess acquisition on the UK plan. It was noted that this potential acquisition had stalled on legal grounds. It was also stated that the Hess UK plan was most likely to remain independent from the Chevron plan.

Third item. Chris Mallinson asked if CUKPA had contact with similar UK oil company pensioner groups. A general discussion followed noting potential methods of contact and benefits to such communications. DAH stated that CUKPA was open and would remain alert to such opportunities.

8. CLOSE OF MEETING

The Chairman again thanked Doug Reoch for his time on the committee and work on the Insight newsletter.

He called on members to consider submitting articles of interest for the newsletter and again, their candidacy as committee members.

SW expressed appreciation, on behalf of Association members, for all the hard work and dedication Mr. Alan Higgins gives to leading the Association, endorsed by all those attending.

DAH thanked the meeting for all the ongoing support for the Committee and thanked everyone for attending.

The meeting closed at 12.30 hrs.