NHS pay bands explained

If you’re planning a career in the NHS or already working within it, understanding NHS pay bands is essential. These bands form the basis of the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system, which ensures that staff are paid fairly based on their role, experience, and responsibilities. In this guide, we break down each NHS pay band, the average salary for the 2025–2026 year, the types of roles included, and what qualifications you typically need to progress.

What Are NHS Pay Bands?

NHS pay bands are a structured salary framework used across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. There are nine pay bands (Band 1 to Band 9), and each one includes specific healthcare job roles with set salary ranges. Employees move up through pay points within each band based on experience, training, and performance.

NHS Pay Bands and Salaries (2025–2026)

Band 1– Support Roles

• Average Salary: £24,465

• Roles: Domestic assistants, housekeepers.

• Requirements: No formal qualifications; on-the-job training.

Band 2– Entry-Level Support Staff

• Average Salary: £24,465

• Roles: Healthcare assistants, porters, clerical staff.

• Requirements: Basic education; NVQ Level 2 is helpful.

Band 3– Senior Support Staff

• Average Salary: £25,768

• Roles: Senior healthcare assistants, therapy assistants, admin officers.

• Requirements: NVQ Level 3 or relevant experience.

Band 4 – Associate Practitioners

• Average Salary: £28,823

• Roles: Assistant practitioners, medical secretaries.

• Requirements: Foundation degree or equivalent; prior experience..

Band 5 – Qualified Clinical Staff

• Average Salary: £33,444

• Roles: Staff nurses, radiographers, paramedics, occupational therapists.

• Requirements: Degree in a relevant field and professional registration.

Band 6 – Experienced Specialists and Team Leaders

• Average Salary: £41,362

• Roles: Senior nurses, health visitors, specialist therapists.

• Requirements: Postgraduate qualifications and leadership experience.

Band 7 – Advanced Practitioners and Managers

• Average Salary: £50,964

• Roles: Ward managers, advanced nurse practitioners, clinical leads.

• Requirements: Master’s degree or equivalent; advanced clinical skills.

Band 8a – Senior Managers and Consultants

• Average Salary: £59,620

• Roles: Modern matrons, service managers.

• Requirements: Strategic leadership experience.

Band 8b – Heads of Departments

• Average Salary: £69,327

• Roles: Heads of nursing, senior clinical managers.

• Requirements: Extensive leadership and management background.

Band 8c – Associate Directors

• Average Salary: £81,766

• Roles: Associate directors, senior strategy managers.

• Requirements: Proven leadership at a senior level.

Band 8d – Executive-Level Roles

• Average Salary: £97,207

• Roles: Directors of operations, finance, or nursing.

• Requirements: Executive experience, often overseeing major NHS services.

Band 9 – Very Senior Managers

• Average Salary: £117,409

• Roles: Chief executives, national directors.

• Requirements: High-level policy, leadership, and strategic experience.

How to Progress Through NHS Pay Bands

Pay progression usually occurs annually within each band, based on performance reviews. Moving to a higher band typically requires applying for a new role in the healthcare sector with greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Why NHS Pay Bands Matter

The NHS pay band system offers a clear and transparent path for career development. Whether you're just starting out as a healthcare assistant or aiming for a senior leadership role, the banding system helps ensure fair pay and structured progression.

Final Thoughts

Knowing where you fit into the NHS pay bands can help you plan your next career move or understand your earning potential. With opportunities for development and salary increases at every level, the NHS offers a rewarding and structured pathway for a wide range of roles.​