Almost four in 10 members of final salary pension schemes would be reluctant to move to a new job for fear of damaging their retirement savings, according to research from pensions risk transfer provider MetLife Assurance.

The research shows 60% workers would be deterred from moving jobs to an employer offering inferior pension benefits.

The research also shows 26% would not move jobs, while 36% would only move if their salary increased by 10% or more.

Emma Watkins, director of business development at MetLife Assurance, says: “It is very encouraging to learn the level of importance people are placing on their pension savings as demonstrated by the reluctance to move jobs if the pension provision at their new employer is inferior.

“That gives a clear message to employers of the importance and quality of pensions in recruitment and retention of staff.”