If you’re working in the NHS or supporting someone who does, you’re probably wondering: nhs pay rise when will it be paid?
With rising living costs and stretched workloads, the question of when pay increases will hit your account is more important than ever.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know—from expected payment dates and backdated wages to how much you can expect based on your band.
We’ll also explore how the government and unions are handling this year’s NHS pay review process.
Why Is Everyone Talking About the NHS Pay Rise in 2025?
The NHS has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years—from staffing shortages to strikes by nurses and junior doctors. As a result, the 2025 NHS pay rise has become a hot topic, and with good reason.
- It affects over 1.3 million NHS staff in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
- It determines how your basic pay is adjusted and whether you’ll receive backdated earnings.
- It influences recruitment and retention in an overstretched system.
So when announcements are made, it’s understandable that you want answers quickly.
NHS Pay Rise When will It Be Paid?
The official NHS pay award is usually implemented a few months after the Pay Review Body (PRB) recommendations are submitted and accepted by the government.
In 2025, this process followed a similar pattern:
- The government accepted the PRB recommendation in July 2025.
- Payments will be processed in October or November 2025, depending on your NHS Trust’s payroll cycle.
- If you’re eligible, you will receive backdated pay from April 2025.
You’ll likely see the updated rate and backpay reflected in your next one or two payslips after the implementation.
Will the NHS Pay Rise Be Backdated?
Yes, the NHS pay rise for 2025 is backdated to April 1st, 2025, which is when the new financial year began.
This means you should receive a lump sum covering the months from April to the date your trust implements the new rate.
Who qualifies for backdated pay?
- Current NHS employees on Agenda for Change contracts
- Staff who were employed on or after 1st April 2025
- Some recently departed staff (if they left after April) may be eligible to request back pay
Be sure to check with your HR or Payroll Department if you’re unsure.
How Much Is the NHS Pay Rise for Each Staff Band?
How much you receive depends on your banding and your years of service within that band. While some staff will see a 3% increase, others—especially in Bands 5–7—could benefit from up to 5% or more.
Let’s break it down:
NHS Pay Rise Table: Band-by-Band Breakdown
| Band | 2024 Salary (£) | 2025 Updated Salary (£) | % Increase |
| Band 2 | £22,383 | £23,200 | 3.6% |
| Band 5 | £28,407 | £29,850 | 5.1% |
| Band 6 | £35,392 | £37,000 | 4.5% |
| Band 7 | £43,742 | £45,750 | 4.6% |
These figures reflect the base rate and may vary slightly based on inner/outer London weighting and regional adjustments.
Who Decides NHS Pay and When Are Decisions Made?
The NHS Pay Review Body (PRB) is the independent group responsible for reviewing and recommending pay increases for NHS staff each year. Here’s how the process works:
- Unions and government departments submit evidence.
- The PRB reviews inflation, recruitment, morale, and workload.
- It publishes a report—usually by June or July.
- The government then accepts or modifies the recommendation.
- Payment follows within 2–3 months, depending on payroll systems.
This means you can typically expect payment between August and November, with backdating to April.
How Will You See the NHS Pay Rise Reflected in Your Payslip?
Once the pay rise is implemented, your payslip will show:
- Your new basic pay rate
- A separate line for back pay/arrears
- Adjustments for any unpaid increments
It’s a good idea to compare this month’s payslip with last month’s to ensure all changes are applied correctly.
If something seems off, contact your payroll or HR department immediately.
What If You’re on Maternity, Sick Leave, or Have Left the NHS?
Even if you’re not currently working full-time or have left the NHS, you may still be eligible for the 2025 pay award.
Here’s what applies:
- Maternity leave: You’ll still receive back pay for any qualifying periods.
- Sick leave: Entitlement depends on your contract and sick pay status.
- If you left recently: You may be able to request your back pay if you worked any days after 1 April 2025.
Reach out to your last employer or payroll team to find out how to claim.
What Are the Unions Saying About the NHS Pay Deal?
Union responses to the 2025 pay deal have been mixed:
- The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) welcomed the backdating but said it still falls short of covering inflation.
- BMA representatives for junior doctors continue to call for full pay restoration.
- Unison and Unite are urging the government to address ongoing recruitment gaps and burnout.
Future negotiations are already in motion for 2026 pay talks, so you may see more activity later this year.
Tips for Managing Your Finances With the Upcoming Pay Rise
Receiving a pay bump and back pay lump sum might feel like a win—and it is—but it’s important to manage that money wisely.
Consider doing the following:
- Use part of your back pay to reduce debt
- Boost your savings or top up your NHS pension
- Review your tax code—especially if you jump a tax bracket
- Plan for upcoming expenses rather than splurging
- Speak to a financial advisor for longer-term planning
Conclusion: What Should You Do Next?
Now that you know when the NHS pay rise will be paid and how much you can expect, here are your next steps:
- Check your band and pay scale
- Monitor your next payslip(s) for new rates and back pay
- Contact HR if you’re on leave, have left, or haven’t received what you expected
- Stay up to date with union announcements and government updates
Understanding your nhs pay rise when will it be paid helps you make better financial decisions and ensures you’re being paid what you’re owed.
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