As an NHS staff member, it’s essential to understand your notice period, especially when considering a new role or leaving your current job.
Your notice period is the time you must work after notifying your employer of your intention to leave. While many NHS staff assume notice periods are standard across organizations, the reality is that they vary depending on the employer and seniority.
What is the notice period for NHS staff on Agenda for Change 2021?
The National Agenda for Change contract defines notice periods as “Other Terms and Conditions,” which are agreed upon locally rather than nationally which means that each NHS organization sets its notice period requirements.
While there is no standard notice period for all NHS staff, most organizations increase the length of notice periods based on seniority.
What is the notice period for NHS staff on Agenda for Change Qui?
The notice period for NHS staff on Agenda for Change Qui (qualifying income) contracts also varies depending on the employer. However, the typical notice periods for different Agenda for Change bands are:
- Bands 2-5: One month
- Bands 6-7: 10 weeks
- Bands 8-9: Three months
- Very Senior Managers (VSM): Three to six months
NHS Jobs and Agenda for Change Pay Scales
NHS jobs are categorized into different bands, each with its pay scale. Agenda for Change pay scales are standardized across the NHS, but notice periods are not. It’s crucial to check your contract of employment to determine your notice period, as it may vary from the standard periods outlined above.
Agenda for Change 2024/25
The Agenda for Change contract is reviewed and updated regularly. For the 2024/25 period, notice periods are expected to remain the same as in previous years, with variations depending on the employer and seniority.
NHS Employers and Working out Notice Period
NHS employers are responsible for setting notice periods for their staff. If you need more clarification about your notice period, it’s best to check your contract of employment or speak with your manager or HR representative. They can help you understand your notice period and any flexibility that may be available.
Notice Period UK
In the UK, the minimum notice period for employees is one week for every year of service, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. However, NHS staff on Agenda for Change contracts have different notice periods, as outlined above.
Standard Notice Period for NHS Employees
There is no standard notice period for all NHS employees. Notice periods vary depending on the employer and seniority, with more senior staff typically required to give longer notice periods.
Notice Period for Band 6 Staff
Band 6 staff are required to give ten weeks’ notice, according to the typical notice periods outlined in the Agenda for Change contract.
Minimum Notice Period for Employees in the UK
The minimum notice period for employees in the UK is one week for every year of service, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. However, this does not apply to NHS staff on Agenda for Change contracts, who have different notice periods.
Notice Period for Staff Meetings
There is no specific notice period for staff meetings. However, employers are required to provide reasonable notice for meetings, especially if they are scheduled outside of regular working hours.