The NHS Pay Scale 2025/26 outlines the updated salary structure for healthcare staff working under the Agenda for Change (AfC) system. Every year, the NHS pay bands are reviewed to ensure that wages reflect inflation, living costs, and government funding. The new update for 2025/26 includes a fair uplift in pay for all NHS staff to help with the rising cost of living and to retain skilled professionals within the healthcare system.
Pay Rise for 2025/26
For the year 2025/26, most NHS employees under the Agenda for Change structure will receive an average 3.6% pay increase, backdated to April 2025. Meanwhile, doctors, dentists, and consultants will see a 4% pay uplift. These changes aim to reward staff for their continuous efforts, especially after years of high workload and financial pressure in the health sector.
Agenda for Change Pay Bands
The Agenda for Change (AfC) system is the main pay framework covering most NHS workers such as nurses, midwives, healthcare assistants, and administrative staff. There are nine pay bands in total, each representing different job levels and responsibilities.
- Band 1–2: These are entry-level roles such as porters and domestic assistants, with salaries starting around £24,000 annually.
- Band 3: Support workers and healthcare assistants earn between £24,900 and £26,600.
- Band 4: Assistant practitioners and technical support staff earn between £27,400 and £30,100.
- Band 5: Newly qualified nurses and other professionals start around £31,000 and can earn up to £37,700.
- Band 6: Experienced staff such as specialist nurses earn between £38,600 and £46,500.
- Band 7: Senior staff and team leaders earn between £47,800 and £54,700.
- Bands 8a–8d and Band 9: Senior managers and consultant-level roles earn from £65,000 to over £130,000 annually.
High-Cost Area Supplements
To support NHS workers in expensive regions, the High-Cost Area Supplement (HCAS) continues in 2025/26. This additional payment applies mainly to staff working in London and surrounding areas where the cost of living is significantly higher. The supplement is added on top of the basic salary and varies depending on whether the area is classified as inner London, outer London, or a fringe zone.
Doctors and Dentists Pay
Doctors, consultants, GPs, and dentists have a separate pay structure reviewed by their own pay review body. For 2025/26, these professionals receive a 4% pay increase. This adjustment supports recruitment, retention, and motivation among clinical professionals working long hours and managing critical responsibilities.
Impact on Recruitment and Workforce
The updated NHS pay scale aims to make healthcare careers more attractive to both UK and international professionals. Competitive pay helps to fill staff shortages, especially in nursing and allied health professions. The new rates also bring many roles closer to the UK visa salary threshold, making it easier for overseas staff to qualify for Skilled Worker Visas.
Summary
The NHS Pay Scale 2025/26 reflects the government’s commitment to fair pay and workforce stability. With an increase of 3.6% for most staff and 4% for medical professionals, the new structure ensures that healthcare workers are rewarded for their dedication. The inclusion of High-Cost Area Supplements and backdated payments makes this update both practical and motivating, helping the NHS maintain high-quality patient care across the United Kingdom.
Comments