Almost a third (31 per cent) of UK adults have increased their workplace pension contributions above the minimum level, according to a report by Standard Life.

The research also found that one in 10 have made one-off lump sum payments in a proactive move to boost retirement savings.

Standard Life said its analysis, carried out as part of Pensions Engagement Season 2025, had revealed that even small increases in contributions could greatly enhance the level of savings built up for retirement.

According to the group, upping monthly contributions from the standard 5 per cent to 7 per cent could lead to an increase in retirement savings of £52,000.

For those able to afford doubling the standard contribution to 10 per cent, retirement savings could be increased by as much as £131,000. (The figures assume 3.50 per cent salary growth per year, and 5 per cent a year investment growth, and account for 2 per cent inflation as well as 0.75 per cent management charges.)

Those who can pay a lump sum – even a relatively small one – into their pension pots will also reap substantial rewards, Standard Life said. A lump-sum contribution of £500 made once every five years between the ages of 25 and 65 would lead to an increase of £5,000.

A lump sum of £1,000 made at the same frequency would boost savings by £11,000.

Commenting on the figures, Standard Life’s managing director for retail direct, Dean Butler, said: “It’s great to see so many people taking charge of their financial future – and the best part is, you don’t need to make huge changes to see a big impact.

"Even small top-ups, whether monthly or occasional, can add up to tens of thousands of pounds over a working lifetime.”

Butler added: “Starting early and contributing consistently is key, and some employers will match additional contributions, giving your savings an even greater lift. If you’re able to save more, your future self is likely to thank you."

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