NHS Consultant Doctors’ Pay across the UK 2024
- June 25, 2024
As an overseas doctor looking to work in the UK, it is essential to understand the salary that comes along with your NHS job and how this can be different from one country in the UK to another.
Whilst the NHS has guides that are used to fairly and uniformly determine consultant pay, these do differ across the UK.
Basic Pay
Consultants in England and the other home countries each have their own consultant contracts in place. These are based on a full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, each having a time-tabled value of four hours.
The basic pay thresholds in England and their equivalents in the rest of the home countries are shown below:
England
Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £105,504 and £139,882 in England.
|
Threshold |
Years completed as a consultant |
Basic Salary |
|
1 |
0 |
£105,504 |
|
2 |
1 |
£105,504 |
|
3 |
2 |
£105,504 |
|
4 |
3 |
£111,714 |
|
5 |
4 |
£114,894 |
|
5 |
||
|
6 |
||
|
7 |
||
|
8 |
||
|
6 |
9 |
£126,018 |
|
10 |
||
|
11 |
||
|
12 |
||
|
13 |
||
|
7 |
14 |
£139,882 |
|
15 |
||
|
16 |
||
|
17 |
||
|
18 |
||
|
8 |
19+ |
£139,882 |
The most recent full pay circular for England can be found here.
The National Clinical Impact Award (NCIA) scheme aims to reward consultants who contribute most to the delivery of safe and high-quality care and the improvement of NHS services. You can apply for a new award after you have completed a full year in an eligible role.
Scotland
Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £96,963 and £128,841 in Scotland.
|
Threshold |
Years completed as a consultant |
Basic Salary |
|
1 |
1 (starting salary) |
£96,963 |
|
2 |
2 |
£99,011 |
|
3 |
3 |
£101,957 |
|
4 |
4 |
£104,906 |
|
5 |
5 |
£107,846 |
|
6 |
||
|
7 |
||
|
8 |
||
|
9 |
||
|
6 |
10 |
£114,846 |
|
11 |
||
|
12 |
||
|
13 |
||
|
14 |
||
|
7 |
15 |
£121,846 |
|
16 |
||
|
17 |
||
|
18 |
||
|
19 |
||
|
8 |
20+ |
£128,841 |
The most recent full pay circular for Scotland can be found here.
All consultants who have reached point five of the pay scale are eligible for consideration for discretionary points, except for distinction award holders. Consultants granted discretionary points are not normally considered again for two years, although this may vary.
Wales
Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £100,000 and £146,000 in Wales.
| Threshold | Years completed as a consultant | Basic Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 (starting salary) | £100,000 |
| 2 | 1 | £105,000 |
| 3 | 2 | £110,000 |
| 4 | 3 | £115,000 |
| 5 | 4 | £123,000 |
| 6 | 5 | £130,000 |
| 7 | 6 | £138,000 |
| 8 | 7 | £146,000 |
The most recent full pay circular for Wales can be found here.
Please note that the pay scale above is for substantive or permanent doctors in Wales.
There is a fixed pay point of £105,401 for locum consultants, which will apply regardless of years of consultant experience.
Commitment awards are available to all consultants after three years’ service at the top of the consultant pay scale, who demonstrate their commitment through satisfactory job plan reviews. They are then eligible at three-yearly intervals, until they have achieved eight award levels.
Northern Ireland
Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £88,799 and £119,723 in Northern Ireland.
|
Threshold |
Years completed as a consultant |
Basic Salary |
|
1 |
1 (starting salary) |
£88,799 |
|
2 |
2 |
£91,581 |
|
3 |
3 |
£94,362 |
|
4 |
4 |
£97,141 |
|
5 |
5 |
£99,913 |
|
6 |
||
|
7 |
||
|
8 |
||
|
9 |
||
|
6 |
10 |
£106,520 |
|
11 |
||
|
12 |
||
|
13 |
||
|
14 |
||
|
7 |
15 |
£113,124 |
|
8 |
16+ |
£119,723 |
The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here.
When would I see an increase in my pay?
We are confirming when exactly SAS doctors would see the increase to their pay, but it has been agreed that the uplifts will be backdated to April 2024.
Job Planning and Programmed Activities
As part of your contract, your job plan will be created in partnership with your new NHS employer. This is an annual agreement that sets out your duties, responsibilities and objectives for the length of your contract.
There are four basic categories of contractual work which will be included in your job plan: direct clinical care (DCC), supporting professional activities (SPAs), additional responsibilities and external duties.
There are ways that consultants will be able to earn more than the basic rates above and these can include additional rotas and PAs. This will also be discussed in the creation of your job plan.
For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Relevant Jobs
A general hospital in the Channel Isles is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in medical dermatology, paediatric dermatology, and skin surgery. The dermatology department includes a lead consultant and is supported by a team of dedicated nurses and administrative staff. This dermatology role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, with preference given to those holding a GMC Specialist Registration or an equivalent Royal College qualification.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (CESR) can discuss their needs on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- A Primary Medical Degree and GMC Specialist Registration are required for this role, and those interested in skin cancer prevention and general dermatology are encouraged to apply.
- The salary will be between £102,090 - £152,196 per annum, depending on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Conduct outpatient clinics focused on medical and general dermatology, including minor procedures.
- Collaborate with Primary Care and other specialists for patient referrals and skin cancer prevention.
- Participate in weekly multidisciplinary team meetings focused on skin cancer.
- Provide mentorship and support for nursing staff within the dermatology department.
LIFE IN THE CHANNEL ISLES
The Channel Isles offer an idyllic coastal lifestyle with easy access to both the UK and France. Residents can enjoy the vibrant town life of St. Helier or the serene countryside across the island’s parishes.This area has excellent schools, convenient transport links to major UK cities, and diverse leisure activities including beach sports, hiking, and water sports. With its blend of British and French cultural influences and scenic coastlines, the area is ideal for work and family life. Historically, the Channel Isles are known for their rich heritage and distinctive cultural blend, offering unique historical landmarks and fortifications.
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 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
A hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant in Emergency Medicine with an interest in trauma care and emergency medicine leadership. The Emergency Department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Emergency Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCEM 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 with a licence to practice and at least six months of obtaining a CCT in Emergency Medicine, CESR, or European Specialist Qualifications are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in trauma care and clinical leadership should apply.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide high-quality emergency care to patients in the ED, including trauma cases.
- Lead the clinical team and oversee the Emergency Physician in Charge (EPIC) role.
- Engage in departmental audits and participate in clinical governance and quality improvement projects.
- Provide clinical supervision and mentoring to junior doctors and trainees.
LIFE IN YORKSHIRE
The hospital is located in a picturesque region, with local towns offering both urban and rural living options. The area boasts excellent schools, transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities. Yorkshire has historical significance as a former center of the wool industry and offers rich industrial heritage alongside beautiful countryside.
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 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration and a license to practice with experience in Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Gynaecology and Upper GI Oncology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide a comprehensive Oncology service and expertise in the management of site specialist cancer services.
- Collaborate with the multidisciplinary teams to develop and support Oncology services.
- Supervise and manage junior medical staff, including supporting the service during colleagues\' leave.
- Undertake teaching, clinical audit, and research, contributing to local and national postgraduate education.
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is based in the North West of England, with the closest urban areas offering a range of living options from city life to more rural surroundings.
The region boasts excellent schools and transport links, with trains connecting to major UK cities, and plenty of leisure activities for adults and families, including access to outdoor activities and historic landmarks.
The North West has significant historical importance and features stunning landscapes, making it a desirable location to live and work.
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 a coastal region is looking for a Consultant in Dermatology with an interest in Inflammatory/Vascular Skin Disease. The Dermatology department comprises a team of 5 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and specialists. This dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with equivalent qualifications 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 Registration with GMC with a license to practice, and a higher degree in Dermatology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in surgical dermatology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead clinical activities for an outpatient caseload and conduct inpatient reviews.
- Perform consultations and minor operative surgeries, and attend wards to review inpatient referrals.
- Supervise and mentor junior clinical team members, including GPSI’s and Clinical Nurse Specialists.
- Contribute to service development, training, and participate in clinical audits and governance.
LIFE IN COASTAL REGION
The coastal region offers a blend of vibrant urban life and serene rural settings, with popular towns providing a lively atmosphere and beautiful coastlines. Families will appreciate the excellent local schools, while transport links, including direct train services to major cities, make commuting convenient. The area is rich in history, with landmarks and national parks contributing to its cultural significance in British history.
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.
An NHS district general hospital in the North West is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology. The haematology department comprises a team of three consultants and is supported by middle-grade doctors. This haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath qualifications 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
Applicants should hold full GMC registration and have CCT or equivalent qualifications in haematology. At least three years of higher training are required, and those with experience in haemato-oncology are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £90,000 to £139,000 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide a comprehensive haematology service, including haemato-oncology treatment.
- Participate in the on-call rota (1:4 weekends) and weekly MDT meetings.
- Collaborate with regional services for complex cases.
- Contribute to the department’s governance, audits, and professional development.
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is located in a vibrant city with both urban and rural living options. The region boasts excellent schools, transport links, and numerous outdoor and cultural activities. Historically, the area is known for its scenic beauty and significant landmarks.
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
- Short and long-term accommodation sourcing
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care