In an important development for healthcare professionals, the NHS Employers and the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB) have confirmed a pay increase for doctors and dentists in England for the 2026–27 financial year. The announcement was made on 26 March 2026, following the government’s acceptance of the DDRB’s recommendations.
Pay Increase for Medical and Dental Professionals
The government has approved a 3.5% pay rise for several groups of medical and dental professionals starting 1 April 2026. This increase applies to:
- Resident doctors and dentists
- Specialty, specialist, and associate specialist doctors and dentists
- Consultants
- Salaried general practitioners
The revised salaries will be implemented in June 2026 pay packets, with payments backdated to April 2026.
Additional Pay Boost for Community Dentists
Dentists working in community dental services will receive a slightly higher pay increase. Their salaries will rise by 3.75%, recognizing the important role community dentists play in providing oral healthcare to vulnerable populations.
Focus on Dental Cost Structures
The DDRB also suggested developing a national index of dental costs across the UK. This index could help governments better determine expense adjustments in dental contracts and ensure that rising practice costs are properly reflected in funding structures.
Review of Career Progression
Another recommendation involves reviewing career progression and salary structures for dentists in public and community dental services. The goal is to improve recruitment, retention, and long-term workforce stability in public oral healthcare systems.
National Clinical Impact Awards Update
The government has also accepted the recommendation to increase the value of National Clinical Impact Awards, which reward exceptional contributions by senior clinicians. The revised values, effective from 1 April 2025, are:
- Level 1: £21,000
- Level 2: £31,500
- Level 3: £42,000
These awards recognize healthcare professionals who make significant contributions to patient care, research, and clinical leadership.
Pay reforms like these reflect a broader global conversation about supporting healthcare professionals and ensuring long-term stability in public dental services.
Reference
“NHS PRB Pay Award Announcement 2026”
Link: https://www.nhsemployers.org/news/nhs-prb-pay-award-announcement-2026
Source: NHS Employers
“NHS Pay Awards 2025 to 2026: Doctors and Dentists”
Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nhs-pay-awards-2025-to-2026-doctors-and-dentists
Source: Department of Health and Social Care
“NHS Employers’ Evidence to the Pay Review Bodies 2026/27”
Link: https://www.nhsemployers.org/news/nhs-employers-evidence-pay-review-bodies-202627
Source: NHS Employers
