Majority of NHS Staff Cite Improved Pay as Crucial for Retention
A new survey reveals that nearly two-thirds of NHS staff believe improved pay is essential to improve retention and address workforce shortages, amid ongoing pay disputes.
Recent research conducted by researchers from University College London and the University of Leicester highlights the importance of improved pay in retaining NHS staff. According to a comprehensive survey involving 10,542 NHS workers conducted between late 2024 and early 2025, nearly half of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their current pay, and over 25% were contemplating leaving their positions. The study, part of the UK-REACH project and published in The Lancet Regional Health - Europe, reveals that when asked about measures to improve staff retention, almost two-thirds pointed to better pay as the most effective solution.
The survey identified that newly qualified doctors and dentists demonstrated the highest levels of pay dissatisfaction, with 52% indicating an intention to exit the NHS. In comparison, 45% of senior medical staff and approximately 33% of other healthcare workers, including nurses and support staff, also considered leaving. These findings come amidst ongoing disputes between the British Medical Association and the government regarding doctors’ pay, which led to strikes in July 2025.
Professor Manish Pareek from the University of Leicester emphasized that NHS staff, particularly resident doctors, feel significantly undervalued, warning that early attrition could threaten the stability of the healthcare workforce. This potential exodus raises concerns about the quality and safety of patient care, especially since existing issues like long waiting times are already pressing.
Professor Katherine Woolf from UCL pointed out that high intentions to leave among staff reflect broader workforce challenges, including staffing shortages and feelings of being overstretched. While the NHS’s 10-year plan aims to enhance career progression and work environment, the study underscores that addressing pay disparities must be integral to retaining healthcare professionals. The findings advocate for informed conversations among policymakers, unions, and healthcare leaders to develop sustainable solutions for staff retention.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-nhs-staff-pay-key-boosting.html
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