NHS doctors and dentists to get 2.8% pay rise

The government has announced NHS doctors and dentists in England will get a 2.8% pay rise, backdated to April. 

Ministers have accepted in full the pay recommendations in the latest Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB) report, which considers a range of evidence from the NHS and trade unions.

It follows the settlement for more than one million NHS workers who continue to benefit from the 3-year Agenda for Change pay deal agreed with NHS trade unions.

‘These past few months have been an incredibly challenging time for our NHS, and the resolve, professionalism and dedication of staff has been on show throughout,’ said health secretary, Matt Hancock.

‘We are able to accept the recommendations of the independent pay review body for dentists and doctors.

‘I am committed to supporting the entire NHS and social care workforce through improved recruitment and retention and delivering 50,000 more nurses and 6,000 more doctors in general practice,’ added Mr Hancock.

Under this deal the starting pay for a newly qualified nurse has increased by over 12% since 2017 to 2018 and all nurses have received pay increases of at least 6.5%.

It comes as the trade union Unison calls for a backdated pay rise for all public sector workers.

‘The dedication and hugely important part played by all NHS, care, council, police and school staff during the pandemic is clear for all to see,’ said Unison general secretary, Dave Prentic.

‘But pay rises must be funded or already-stretched public services will feel an even greater pinch.

‘The government must show its appreciation by coming up with the cash now to give the rest of the NHS staff – including nurses, porters, ambulance crew and cleaners – an early pay rise this year.

‘Local authorities also need proper funding so council, school support staff and care workers can get a well-deserved wages boost too,’ added Mr Prentis.

‘Investment in staff and public services now will help boost the economy and ensure the UK’s in a better position to withstand a possible second wave.’

Photo Credit – Free-Photos (Pixabay)