What is NHS Band 8a pay in 2026/27?

Band 8a covers Modern matrons, nurse consultants. Pay ranges from £57,528 to £64,750 (England) across 3 pay points. At Year 1, gross pay is £57,528. Rates are set nationally by the NHS Pay Review Body and updated each April.

How much did Band 8a pay rise in 2026/27?

Entry-point gross rose by £1,838 (3.3%) from 2025/26 to 2026/27. Use the calculator to see the net change at Year 1 after pension, tax and NI.

How much does a Band 8a Modern matrons take home after tax?

In 2026/27 at Year 1, monthly take-home after pension, tax and National Insurance is around £3,353 (England). Across the band, the range is £3,353–£3,663. Use the calculator for a personalised figure with student loans or salary sacrifice.

How does the NHS pension affect Band 8a pay?

NHS Pension contributions are deducted before income tax under a NET pay arrangement, so you get full tax relief automatically. The contribution rate for Band 8a is 10.7% of salary. That reduces your taxable income but not your National Insurance, which is calculated on your full gross pay.

Does Band 8a pay include London weighting?

Base pay does not include London weighting. Staff in qualifying areas receive a High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS) on top, ranging from 5% in the fringe zone to 20% in inner London. HCAS is pensionable and affects your take-home calculation.

Last updated 29 April 2026

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At a Glance
FAQ

NHS Band 8a Pay

Looking at the wrong band? Try Band 7 or Band 8b.

At a glance

Band 8a includes Modern matrons, nurse consultants across 3 pay points. Your salary is taxed at the higher rate (40%) across all pay points, and your pension contribution is at tier 5 (10.7%). If you have children under 18, the High Income Child Benefit Charge could apply to you. The Annual Allowance is also worth watching for long-service staff.

See your pay and pension

Build a personalised scenario with your band, pay point, region, and pension options then see the monthly breakdown in the calculator.

At a glance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NHS Band 8a pay in 2026/27?expand_circle_down

How much did Band 8a pay rise in 2026/27?expand_circle_down

How much does a Band 8a Modern matrons take home after tax?expand_circle_down

How does the NHS pension affect Band 8a pay?expand_circle_down

Does Band 8a pay include London weighting?expand_circle_down