Band 5 is one of the most common pay bands in the NHS — especially for newly qualified nurses, radiographers, and physiotherapists.
It’s the entry-level point for professional clinical staff after graduation or registration.
NHS Band 5 Salary 2025
| Step | Annual Salary (£) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 28,407 | Starting point for new entrants |
| Step 2 | 30,639 | After 2 years of experience |
| Step 3 | 34,581 | Experienced Band 5 employee |
Estimated Take-Home Pay (2025)
| Category | Monthly (£) |
|---|---|
| Gross Pay | £2,367 |
| Pension (7.7%) | −£182 |
| Tax & NI | −£323 |
| Net Pay | ~£1,862/month |
Common Band 5 Roles
- Staff Nurse
- Midwife
- Radiographer
- Operating Department Practitioner
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational Therapist
Band 5 to Band 6 Progression
You can progress to Band 6 after gaining:
- 2–3 years of clinical experience
- Specialist training or postgraduate certification
- Strong performance appraisals
Band 6 starting salary (2025): £35,392 — roughly £7,000 more than Band 5 Step 1.
Regional Allowances (London Weighting)
| Area | % | Additional Pay (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Inner London | 20% | +£5,200–£7,400 |
| Outer London | 15% | +£4,300–£5,600 |
| Fringe Area | 5% | +£1,100–£2,000 |
More Topics
Difference Between Band 5 and Band 6 Salary
FAQs
Q1: How long to move from Step 1 to Step 2?
Usually 2 years, with satisfactory performance.
Q2: Is Band 5 full-time or part-time?
Most roles are full-time (37.5 hrs/week), but part-time options exist.
Q3: Do Band 5 staff get overtime?
Yes — paid at enhanced rates for nights, weekends, or public holidays.