In June 2018, the three-year pay deal for all staff on Agenda for Change (AfC) terms and conditions was agreed.

This pay deal included a reform of the pay structure introduced in England, with faster progression to the top of pay bands, fewer pay step points and changes to terms and conditions.

What are the key changes?

All new NHS staff or those promoted to a higher band no longer automatically progress to the next pay step (incremental point) unless they have met a specific set of standards.

For staff to progress to the next pay step on their pay step date (previously increment), they must demonstrate that they have met the pay progression standards:

• Pay progression standards

The revised pay progression system strengthens the appraisal process. It also helps to create a culture based upon continuous learning, putting appraisal at the heart of pay progression, so that staff are supported to develop their skills and competencies.

This also helps us to identify new ways to improve patient care through staff development, across our workforce. The changes are reflected in the contract of employment.

How does this work?

Managers need to arrange an objective setting meeting with new or promoted staff within six weeks of their start date. Staff will review their job role, required training, set SMART objectives and agree on a personal development plan.

Managers are automatically informed of their staff members pay step date three months before it is due. This allows staff to complete all statutory and mandatory training and ensure they have had an appraisal in the last 12 months.