Log in to ESS Lite

Enter my details

Access ESS Lite through a personal device or laptop

Go to the Shared services homepage and select the sign in option.

When the screen is opened, scroll down the list and select ‘Other Devices’ from the dropdown list in the Shared Services screen.

On the sign in screen type in your:

• Personnel number - if you do not know this ask your manager
• Password - the password you set up when you registered

Press Sign in.

You will then be presented with the option to authenticate using either your memorable word or the authentication method set up during registration. Visit ESS Multi Factor Authentication for information on how to set this up.

If you select memorable word, you will be asked to enter three characters from your memorable word. Enter the required characters and press Submit. If you do not already have a memorable word set up, you will not be able to add this as an authentication option.

If you select one-time passcode and you have an authentication app and email address set up to receive a one-time passcode (OTP), you will be able to select your preferred option. If you only have one method set up, it will display a screen with an OTP box for you to enter and sign in.

If the OTP entered on the screen matches the code provided, you will be able to successfully log in to your ESS account.

Press the Sign in with other options box to return to the main screen and select memorable word (if you have one set up). 

The Shared Services page will open. From here you can access ESS Lite to take action or search the guidance pages to support you with self-service.

Multiple employments

If you have more than one role with your employer, you will see a drop-down. You can use this to change between employment details within ESS Lite.

Reset my account

If you have forgotten your password, or need to change, remove or add an authentication method, you will need to go to Update Details.

Follow the ‘sign in’ process detailed above. Instead of signing in, choose the option ‘Reset account’.

After you select 'reset account' you will be required to complete the same process as initial registration – enter your last name, date of birth, personnel number and NI number. If you do not know your personnel number, you will need to ask your manager.

If the personal details you have entered are correct and there is an email address on your record, a one-time passcode (OTP) will be sent to each email address held.

If you do not know the email address held on your record, you will need to speak to your manager, who can check it or add one to your record on your behalf.

You will receive an email confirming that a change has been made, but please note that updates will appear on your account the next working day. You will need to wait until then before attempting to re‑register.

Also be aware that managers cannot amend an employee’s email address when payroll is closed.

Once you have the OTP you must then enter this on the screen presented to continue to the final page.

You will then be required to enter a new password (minimum of 15 characters).

Sign out

There are different ways to sign out depending on where you are in ESS Lite.

From the initial landing page press the Sign out button.

From within ESS Lite either press Logout or press the cog button, followed by Log Out.