As a nurse at the East Surrey Hospital, Redhill, England, I often get asked about the highest pay bands in the National Health Service (NHS).
While it’s important to note that not all NHS staff are on the same contracts, the Agenda for Change framework provides a clear outline of the pay scales for the majority of staff.
NHS Pay Bands
The Agenda for Change framework splits NHS staff into eight bands, with Band 9 being the highest. The pay bands are designed to reflect the different roles, responsibilities, and levels of experience within the NHS. While Band 1 is no longer used, the other bands provide a clear progression path for staff.
Band 9: The Highest Pay Band
Band 9 is the highest pay band in the NHS, with basic salaries ranging from £99,891 to £114,949 (based on 2022/23 rates). Staff in Band 9 move to a higher salary after five years of experience. In addition to their basic pay, Band 9 staff may receive:
- High-Cost Area Supplements if based in London
- Unsocial hours payments
- Recruitment and Retention Payments (RRP)
NHS Band 6 Salary
Band 6 is a mid-level band, with salaries ranging from £35,522 to £43,041. Staff in this band include senior nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists.
NHS Band 7 Salary
Band 7 is a more senior band, with salaries ranging from £45,839 to £53,432. Staff in this band include advanced nurse practitioners, senior physiotherapists, and healthcare managers.
Band 6 Nurse Salary
A Band 6 nurse can expect a salary between £35,522 and £43,041.
Band 7 Nurse Salary
A Band 7 nurse can expect a salary between £45,839 and £53,432.
New NHS Pay Scales
The NHS pay scales are regularly reviewed and updated. The latest pay scales, effective from April 2022, reflect a 3% pay rise for most staff.
NHS Band 5 Salary
Band 5 is an entry-level band, with salaries ranging from £25,655 to £31,534. Staff in this band include newly qualified nurses, healthcare assistants, and administrative staff.
Band 8 Nurse Salary
Band 8 is a senior band, with salaries ranging from £57,495 to £67,575. Staff in this band include nurse consultants, senior healthcare managers, and deputy directors.
NHS Band 8 Salary
Band 8 salaries range from £57,495 to £67,575.
Who is Band 9 in NHS?
Band 9 staff are typically the most senior and experienced staff in the NHS, including directors, deputy chief executives, and senior consultants.
What is Band 7 NHS Salary?
A Band 7 staff member can expect a salary between £45,839 and £53,432.
How much do nurses get paid by the NHS?
Nurses in the NHS can expect salaries ranging from £25,655 (Band 5) to £114,949 (Band 9), depending on their experience and role.
What is a Band 8 salary?
A Band 8 staff member can expect a salary between £57,495 and £67,575.
Who pays better nurses, the UK or the USA?
According to various sources, nurses in the USA tend to earn higher salaries than their UK counterparts. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living and other benefits may vary significantly between the two countries.
What is Band 8a NHS?
Band 8a is a sub-band within Band 8, with salaries ranging from £63,751 to £73,664. Staff in this sub-band include senior nurse consultants, deputy directors, and senior healthcare managers.
While Band 9 is the highest pay band, it’s important to recognize that other factors, such as experience, role, and location, also impact an individual’s salary. As a nurse, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest pay scales and developments in the NHS.