Who gets the 3.3% uplift and when will it be paid?

The award covers Agenda for Change staff in England and Wales, including nurses, midwives, paramedics, and support roles. It is set for April 2026 pay, aligned to the 2026/27 year. Payroll timing may affect the exact payslip, but the decision is confirmed for those two nations.

How does the 3.3% compare with inflation and forecasts?

The uplift is just below the latest CPI reading of 3.4%, so real‑terms gains are limited today. It is above the government’s near‑2% inflation forecast, which could narrow the gap later in 2026 if price pressures continue to ease, improving real pay outcomes.

What is the status of Northern Ireland health staff pay?

Northern Ireland has not confirmed its 2026/27 pay outcome due to budget uncertainty. The Health Minister has said he cannot yet commit to a rise. Timing and affordability will depend on Stormont’s allocations. Any delay risks uneven pay across the UK and staffing pressures.

What should investors watch next regarding NHS pay?

Focus on Northern Ireland’s decision and timing, monthly CPI prints that shape real‑terms pay, and any signals from budget statements about departmental headroom. Also track workforce indicators, such as vacancy trends and agency spending, which reflect how pay decisions affect staffing stability and service delivery.

Law and Government

NHS Pay 2026: 3.3% Award Confirmed; NI Delay Clouds Budget — February 14

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 14, 2026

The nhs pay rise 2026 nurses story moved on 14 February as the UK accepted the NHS PRB 3.3% pay award for England and Wales, due in April for 2026/27. Northern Ireland has not confirmed, citing budget uncertainty. The uplift sits just under CPI at 3.4% and above the government’s near‑2% inflation path. For investors, this frames public‑sector wage pressure, potential impacts on health service stability, and the wider UK fiscal stance into the new financial year.