NHS Band 3 Salary
£24,937 - £26,598
2025/26 England pay scale - 2 pay points over 2 years
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay
2025/26 Pay Scale - England
| Pay Point | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | £24,937 | £2,078.08 |
| Top of Band (2 yrs) | £26,598 | £2,216.50 |
2026/27 Pay Scale - England
| Pay Point | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | £25,760 | £2,146.67 |
| Top of Band (2 yrs) | £27,476 | £2,289.67 |
About Band 3
Band 3 covers a wide range of support roles across the NHS, including senior healthcare assistants, phlebotomists, pharmacy assistants, theatre support workers, administrative staff, and medical secretaries. These roles typically require some prior experience or vocational qualifications.
Band 3 has 2 pay points. You start at entry level and progress to the top of the band after 2 years, subject to satisfactory performance at your annual appraisal.
Your actual take-home pay will depend on your pension scheme contributions (typically 5.2% to 6.5% at this salary level), income tax, National Insurance, and any additional payments such as unsocial hours enhancements or High Cost Area Supplements if you work in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NHS Band 3 salary in 2025/26?
NHS Band 3 salary in England for 2025/26 ranges from £24,937 at entry level to £26,598 at the top of the band. There are 2 pay points: Entry (£24,937) and Top of Band after 2 years (£26,598).
What is the NHS Band 3 salary in 2026/27?
NHS Band 3 salary in England for 2026/27 ranges from £25,760 at entry level to £27,476 at the top of the band, reflecting a pay uplift from the 2025/26 rates.
What will my Band 3 take-home pay be?
Band 3 take-home pay depends on your pay point, pension scheme, tax code, student loans, and any additional payments like unsocial hours. Use our free calculator to get your exact monthly and annual take-home figure.
What jobs are NHS Band 3?
NHS Band 3 roles include senior healthcare assistants, phlebotomists, pharmacy assistants, theatre support workers, administrative staff, and medical secretaries. These positions typically require some relevant experience or a Level 2/3 qualification.
How long does it take to reach the top of Band 3?
It takes 2 years to reach the top of Band 3 in England. There are 2 pay points: entry level and top of band. Progression is subject to satisfactory performance demonstrated through your annual appraisal.