What is Band 6? Band 6 represents a senior clinical role in the NHS for experienced staff, including registered nurses, specialist physiotherapists, senior radiographers, and other allied health professionals. Many professionals ask: “What is band 6?”, “What is band 6 pay?”, or “What is a band 6 salary?”
Band 6 reflects increased responsibilities, leadership duties, and specialist skills compared to Band 5 (difference between band 5 and band 6 nurse).
NHS Band 6 Salary 2025/26 (band 6 starting salary | band 6 wages | band 6 pay | nhs band 6 salary uk 2025)
| Step | Annual Salary (£) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 35,392 | Starting salary for new Band 6 staff (**band 6 starting salary |
| Step 2 | 37,890 | After 2 years of experience (band 6 middle pay) |
| Step 3 | 40,626 | Experienced Band 6 employee |
| Step 4 | 43,345 | Top of Band 6 salary (top band 6) |
Estimated Take-Home Pay (2025)
| Category | Monthly (£) |
|---|---|
| Gross Pay | £2,949 (**band 6 annual salary |
| Pension (7.7%) | −£227 |
| Tax & NI | −£430 |
| Net Pay | ~£2,292/month (**band 6 net pay |
Common Band 6 Roles
- Senior Staff Nurse
- Specialist Physiotherapist
- Advanced Radiographer
- Midwife Team Leader
- Operating Department Practitioner
Band 6 Progression
Band 6 is considered a senior clinical role, and further progression can lead to Band 7 or Band 8 roles. To move up:
- 2–3 years of Band 6 experience
- Postgraduate qualifications or specialist training
- Strong performance appraisals and leadership skills
Regional Allowances (London Weighting)
| Area | % | Additional Pay (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Inner London | 20% | +£7,000–£9,000 |
| Outer London | 15% | +£5,500–£7,000 |
| Fringe Area | 5% | +£1,500–£3,000 |
More Topics
What Is the NHS Salary Calculator?
Difference Between Band 5 and Band 6 NHS Salary
FAQs
Q1: What is the starting salary for NHS Band 6?
A: Band 6 starting salary (Step 1) is £35,392 per year (band 6 starting salary | band 6 basic pay).
Q2: Can Band 6 roles be part-time?
A: Yes, many Band 6 positions allow pro-rata or part-time hours.
Q3: Do Band 6 staff receive overtime?
A: Yes — paid at enhanced rates for nights, weekends, or public holidays.
Q4: How much can I earn at the top of Band 6?
A: Step 4 (top of Band 6) can reach £43,345 annually (top band 6), plus regional allowances if applicable.