NHS Band 8a vs Band 8b — Salary, Pay & Roles Compared
Band 8b pays £9,054 more per year at starting salary — that's roughly £389.17 extra per month after deductions.
Salary Difference
+£9,054/yr
Take Home Difference
+£389.17/mo
Band 8aBand 8b
Pay
Starting salary£57,528£66,582
Top of band£64,750£77,368
Take home (start)£3,352.53£3,741.70
Take home (top)£3,662.95£4,135.69
Hourly rate£29.50£34.14
Deductions & Benefits
Pension rate10.7%10.7%
Pay steps33
Overtime eligibleNoNo
Entry Requirements
Typical training8+ years5-7 years
Typical Roles
Examples
Consultant PhysiotherapistHead of NursingPrincipal Clinical PsychologistSenior Manager / Head of Department
Associate Director of NursingHead of TherapiesSenior Clinical DirectorLead Pharmacist
What Changes from Band 8a to Band 8b?
Moving from Band 8a to Band 8b means a pay increase of £9,054/year at starting salary, which works out to roughly £389.17/month more in your pocket after tax, NI and pension.
Band 8b roles typically require more experience, responsibility, or qualifications than Band 8a. Check the roles table above to see what's expected at each level.
Band 8a vs Band 8b FAQ
Band 8b starts at £66,582 compared to £57,528 for Band 8a — a difference of £9,054 per year. After tax, NI and pension, that works out to roughly £389.17 more per month in your pocket.