Band 3 NHS Pay 2026/27
Band 3 covers experienced support staff — senior healthcare assistants, therapy and pharmacy assistants, and medical secretaries. Pay runs from £25,760 to £27,476 in 2026/27.
Band 3 pay points and take-home — 2026/27
| Pay point | Annual salary | Take-home / month | Pension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | £25,760 | £1,727.27 | 6.5% |
| Top | £27,476 | £1,822.80 | 6.5% |
Typical Band 3 roles include senior healthcare assistants, pharmacy assistants, therapy assistants, medical secretaries and experienced support staff. Figures assume full-time hours, NHS Pension included, no student loan or enhancements.
Band 3 questions
How much does a Band 3 take home?
About £1,727 a month at the entry point (£25,760) and £1,823 a month at the top (£27,476), after NHS pension at 6.5%, tax and NI.
How much more is Band 3 than Band 2?
At entry, £488 a year more in salary — about £27 a month more take-home. The top of Band 3 pays about £123 a month more take-home than Band 2.
What pension does a Band 3 pay?
6.5% of pay at both points in 2026/27 — Band 3 salaries sit inside the £13,260–£28,854 tier.
How do I move from Band 3 to Band 4?
Band 4 roles (like associate practitioner or senior secretary posts) usually need a relevant qualification or substantial experience — check your trust's person specifications and any apprenticeship routes.