Resident Doctor Salary UK: Gross Pay, Deductions, and Take-Home Pay

Understanding the Resident Doctor Salary UK

For doctors in training—often called resident doctors—the salary structure in the UK is set nationally by the Doctors’ and Dentists’ Review Body (DDRB) and implemented by NHS Employers. The term “resident doctor” covers Foundation Year 1 and 2 doctors, core trainees, specialty registrars, and others working in hospital posts. Their pay is determined by nodal points on a scale that increases with years of experience and training level.

From 1 April 2026, the government accepted the DDRB recommendation for a 3.5% increase to all pay points for doctors and dentists in training, as confirmed in the Pay and Conditions Circular (M&D) 1/2026. Consultants and specialty doctors also received the same percentage uplift. This means that a resident doctor’s gross salary will be higher than in previous years, but exact figures depend on the specific nodal point.

Gross Salary: What You Earn Before Deductions

While the search results do not provide the exact 2026/27 nodal salary figures for every grade, we can reference a typical example from a BMA payslip guide for a specialty registrar (from 2024, before the 2026 award). That example shows a full-time equivalent (WTE) salary of £33,226 on a scale ranging from £28,976 to £45,562. With a 50% banding supplement (common for rotas with out-of-hours work), the monthly gross pay was £4,642.85.

Applying the 3.5% increase, that WTE salary would rise to approximately £34,389, and the monthly gross would adjust accordingly. However, actual earnings vary: foundation doctors start on lower points, and those in higher training or with more experience earn more. Additionally, Higher Cost Area Supplements (HCAS) add up to 20% of basic salary in parts of London and the South East (subject to minimum and maximum payments of £5,794–£8,746 for inner zones, as per the NHS Employers pay scales for 2026/27).

Deductions from a Resident Doctor’s Pay

Understanding the gap between gross and take-home pay is essential. The main deductions are:

• Income Tax: Paid on earnings above the Personal Allowance (£12,570 for most of the UK). Resident doctors in Scotland face different tax bands (starter, basic, intermediate, higher, top rates), which can significantly affect net pay. The BMA advises checking your tax code (e.g., 0472L in the example) to ensure correct deductions.
• National Insurance (NI): Employee Class 1 NI at 8% on earnings between the primary threshold and upper earnings limit, then 2% above. The example payslip shows NI paid of £532.22 on a monthly gross of £4,642.85.
• NHS Pension Scheme contributions: For resident doctors, the standard contribution is 6.5% of basic salary (excluding banding supplement). In the example, superannuation was £188.97 per month. Note that if you started after 2008, the scheme details differ slightly.
• Student Loan repayments: If you have a Plan 1, 2, 4, or 5 student loan, deductions are taken from your salary once you earn above the threshold (e.g., £2,274 per month for Plan 2). Not all resident doctors have this deduction.

Take-Home Pay: A Real-World Example

Using the BMA payslip for a specialty registrar (pre-2026 rates):

• Gross monthly pay: £4,642.85
• Total deductions: £2,279.52 (including Income Tax £1,558.33, NI £532.22, superannuation £188.97, and other adjustments)
• Net take-home pay: £2,363.33

After the 3.5% increase, the net figure would rise proportionally, but the exact amount depends on whether the doctor’s tax code or pension contributions change. This example illustrates that a significant portion of income goes to tax and pension, which is a common trait across UK public sector roles.

Checking Your Payslip

The BMA guide emphasises verifying your basic salary, tax code, and pension contributions each month. Common errors include incorrect incremental points when moving trusts, wrong tax codes, or missed banding arrears. Resident doctors should refer to the official NHS Employers pay circular for their grade and compare it against their payslip. If you spot a mistake, contact your payroll department or the BMA for support.

Further Resources

To estimate your own take-home pay based on the latest rates, use the take-home calculator. For detailed salary benchmarks across NHS roles, visit the salary data page. And remember, if you are in Scotland, always check the Scottish Income Tax bands, as they differ from England and Wales.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average resident doctor salary in the UK after the 2026 pay award?

Exact averages depend on grade and experience. The 2026/27 pay award added 3.5% to basic salary for doctors in training. For example, a specialty registrar previously on £33,226 would now receive approximately £34,389, but actual figures vary by nodal point. Foundation doctors typically earn less, with FY1 starting around £32,000–£36,000 pre-award. Use the take-home calculator to estimate your net pay.

What deductions are taken from a resident doctor's salary?

Common deductions include Income Tax (based on tax code and Scottish or UK bands), National Insurance (Class 1 employee contributions), NHS Pension Scheme contributions (typically 6.5% of basic salary, excluding banding supplement), and student loan repayments (Plan 1, 2, 4, or 5) if applicable. The salary data page provides typical deduction rates.

How do I check if my resident doctor payslip is correct?

Check your basic salary against the current pay scales (NHS Employers publishes annual circulars). Ensure your tax code is correct and matches your circumstances. Verify your superannuation contribution matches the expected 6.5% of basic salary. If you have banding supplements, confirm the percentage reflects your rota intensity. The BMA provides a detailed payslip guide; contact your payroll department if you spot errors.