What NHS employee benefits can I expect?
- April 10, 2020
Salary & employee benefits are important considerations when applying for jobs in the NHS.
The NHS is one of the most developed health systems in the world and doctors form an integral part of delivering high quality patient care. As such doctors are rewarded with competitive pay rates and benefits, some of which will not be afforded to you in other countries across the world. In this article we will discuss the NHS employee benefits, covering the following topics:
- Annual leave
- Pay enhancements
- Personal development & career progression
- Sick leave
- Maternity leave
- Paternity leave
- Parental leave
- NHS pension
- NHS discounts
- Doctors in training
- Study leave
- Study budget
- Study sessions
- Part-time training
The doctor salary package in the UK, including benefits, can as a whole, make working for the NHS an attraction for many overseas doctors.
Whatever grade or specialty you join, you will become an integral part of the NHS and as such enjoy one of the most competitive packages offered by a UK employer.
Everyone who works in the NHS is guaranteed an annual salary matched to their role, and even better are afforded the opportunity to increase this year-on-year through additional responsibilities and training & development.
All staff will receive an attractive annual leave package in addition to a range of benefits.
Annual leave:
You are entitled to be paid annual leave every year, the amount of annual leave you receive will increase depending on your level of service within the NHS.
You will also receive an additional 8 days of bank holidays.
The longer you work in the NHS, the more annual leave you get.
The table below summarises the current entitlement:
|
Length of service |
Annual leave entitlement |
|
27 days + 8 days bank holidays |
|
|
After 5 years |
29 days + 8 days bank holidays |
|
33 days + 8 days bank holidays |
Pay enhancements:
Pay enhancements reward out of hours working, shifts, overtime and on calls. This means that you can enhance your take home pay each month.
Personal development & career progression:
Each member of staff is given an annual review focused on their own progress and development designed to support their career aspirations.
Sick leave:
Sick days will not be deducted from your annual leave days. If you are unfortunate enough to get sick during annual leave, you may also be able to claim it back so you can use the annual leave another time.
Maternity leave:
Regardless of how long you’ve been working in the NHS, all pregnant employees are entitled to 1-year maternity leave. It is illegal for your employer to fire you during this time. Depending on how long you’ve been working in the NHS during pregnancy, you may also be entitled to maternity pay.
Paternity leave:
Fathers are entitled to 2 weeks paternity leave. This applies to same-sex partners as well as nominated carers for single mothers.
Shared parental leave:
The 1-year maternity leave can in some cases be shared between the parents.
Parental leave:
You are also entitled to 18 weeks parental leave for each child until your child reaches 18 years of age.
Some weeks may be paid, but most of this leave is unpaid.
This is particularly useful for IMGs as it can be used for various things to ensure that your family is cared for and settled into life in the UK. For example, you can take agreed parental leave for things such as helping your child settle into school, if sick, staying with them in hospital, or just to spend more time with your children when you feel it is necessary.
NHS pension:
The NHS Pension is a good scheme when compared with other private pensions available both in the UK and worldwide. In the current financial market, we have found it hard to find a better one, it is generous and an excellent package overall.
All new permanent employees are automatically enrolled in the NHS Pension scheme.
NHS discounts:
A useful range of discounts for NHS employees are available with many shops and services. Don’t forget to ask any shop, restaurant, hotel or any service whether they offer discounts to NHS employees. You will be pleasantly surprised how many do, and can save a lot of money when taking holiday breaks in the UK, or shopping trips.
Doctors in training:
Doctors in training will receive the following additional benefits:
Study leave:
Trainees from FY2 and above will have an entitlement to receive paid study leave. For trainees this is usually 30 days per year with the majority allocated to compulsory teaching sessions provided by the training programme, and 10 days for the trainee to decide what to do with.
Study budget:
Trainees will have access to a small amount of money to attend courses and conferences. It usually does not cover all the expenses, but it undoubtedly helps.
Study sessions:
It is important to note that this is not the same as study leave, instead trainees will have a half day or 2 half days a week for study which can be used to work on audits, presentations, publications and research.
Most IMGs typically use study leave to attend courses, conferences, and study for exams.
Part-time training:
If you need to reduce your hours in order to balance work and other commitments like caring for children or an elderly family member, you can request to complete your training part-time. This is known as “less than full time training” or LTFT training.
The least you can work is 50%, remember this will mean you will take twice as long to complete your training.
Your annual pay with LTFT training will be considerably less than a full-time job. For IMGs it is important to note that this may have implications whilst working on a Tier 2 visa where you generally need to earn more than £30,000 per year.
For the full terms and conditions of working in the NHS, please read through the employee handbook.
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Relevant Jobs
An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.
-
Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.
-
Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.
-
Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of heritage and modern living.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.
-
Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.
-
Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.
-
Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.
LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND
This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
-
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
-
An NHS district general hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer and minor skin surgery. The Dermatology department comprises a team of locum consultants, an experienced Specialty Doctor, and a Biologic Nurse Consultant, supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) or SCE are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration and significant experience in general dermatology and minor surgery, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in skin cancer management and dermatological surgery should apply. The salary will be between £109,725 and £145,478 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver high-quality general dermatology services, including urgent and routine outpatient clinics.
- Participate in subspecialty clinics, particularly for skin cancer diagnosis, management, and surgery.
- Contribute to departmental management, teaching, and supervision of junior doctors and medical students.
- Support service development and clinical governance through audit, guideline development, and education initiatives.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
???????This hospital is situated in the north of England, with popular residential areas including vibrant cities and picturesque countryside locations. Urban dwellers may enjoy city life in places like Sheffield or Leeds, while rural enthusiasts might prefer the surrounding villages and national parks. The region offers great schools, excellent transport connections, and a wide variety of leisure activities for all lifestyles. Historically significant for its industrial roots, the area remains a vital and evolving part of British heritage and modern living.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS cancer centre in Northern Ireland is seeking a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with a specialist interest in Upper GI and Breast cancers. The department includes 11 oncology consultants and is supported by a team of middle grade doctors and specialty trainees. This position is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with FRCR or European Specialist Registration.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants should have full GMC registration and at least 6 years of postgraduate experience in Clinical Oncology. The salary for this role is between £88,799 and £119,723, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Manage patients with Upper GI and Breast cancers across inpatient and outpatient settings.
-
Engage in tumour site-specific MDTs and contribute to treatment planning and decision-making.
-
Support the training and mentoring of oncology registrars and junior doctors.
-
Contribute to service development, teaching, and clinical governance.
LIFE IN NORTHERN IRELAND
Based in the north-west region of Northern Ireland, this location offers both city and rural living, with access to scenic countryside, the coast, and neighbouring towns. The area features well-rated schools, convenient transport infrastructure, and rich opportunities for cultural, historical, and recreational pursuits. It’s a growing destination for healthcare professionals seeking balance between professional development and quality of life.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?*
-
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
-
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
-
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
-
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
-
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
-
Document gathering and checking
-
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
-
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
-
Travel Arrangements
-
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver Haematology services across multiple NHS hospital sites, with inpatient care based at the main centre.
- Conduct outpatient clinics, lab-based diagnostics, MDT participation, and administrative responsibilities.
- Participate in the on-call rota (1 in 8), including weekend ward rounds and lab duties.
- Support the development of junior doctors and engage in audit, research, and quality improvement.
The hospital is based in the central belt of Scotland, with urban living options like Glasgow and more rural choices such as the Clyde Valley. The region offers a good range of schools, strong public transport, and plenty of leisure activities for both professionals and families. Historically rich and industrially significant, this area has evolved into a hub for modern healthcare delivery and research.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care