National Living Wage update from 1st April 2026

FEB 26 National Living Wage

In line with the Government’s announcement in November 2025, updated National Living Wage (NLW) rates will come into effect from 1st April 2026. NHS Professionals has reviewed these changes and is updating its systems to ensure the appropriate rates are applied.

From the 1st April 2026, the NLW will be £12.71 per hour. Where applicable, pay rates will be adjusted in line with the updated NLW requirements. Bank Members whose pay is already above the NLW rate will not be impacted by this change.

NHS 2026 pay review 

NHS Professionals are aware of the government announcement on 12th February in regards to the NHS 2026 pay review. We are working with your Trust to understand the impact on our Bank Members, and we expect to be able to provide more information over the coming weeks. 

FAQ’S National Living Wage Uplift April 2026 
  1. When was the NLW published by the government? 
    The Government announced/published the NLW rates on 26th November 2025. 
  2. What date is the NLW 2026 effective from? 
    The NLW rate uplift is effective from 1st April 2026. 
  3. What is the NLW from 1st April 2026? 
    The NLW as of 1st April 2026 is £12.71 per hour. 
  4. Who is impacted? 
    Any worker whose hourly rate is currently below £12.71 per hour. 
  5. When will this rate be visible in staff bank for shifts rates that I am booking? 
    The new rates are being loaded into Staff Bank and will be visible for all shifts booked from 1st April 2026. If shifts from 1st April 2026 are booked before the table is live, shifts will show at the old rate but will be paid correctly. 
  6. I have been paid below the NLW what I should do? 
    If you believe there is an issue with your payment, please email payandreward@nhsprofessionals.nhs.uk and quote “Paid below NLW” in the subject line. We will investigate and respond within 5 working days.