Analysis
Unions seize chance to modernise NHS pay structure with fairer grading
Nearly 15 years since the implementation of the Agenda for Change pay system, introduced to unify pay across the NHS, the government and nursing unions are discussing the need for modernisation

Nearly 15 years since the implementation of the Agenda for Change pay system, introduced to unify pay across the NHS, the government and nursing unions are discussing the need for modernisation
- Talks have started on a 2018 pay deal for NHS staff
- There is recognition that change is needed in the AfC system
- Unions seek a fairer pay structure and a meaningful pay rise
Picture: iStock
For the first time in a decade, nurses’ unions have the chance to negotiate changes to the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay structure, which has been governing pay in the NHS since 2004.
Exploratory talks between government, NHS Employers and the 14 trade unions known as the staff side are under way on a
...Want to read more?
Unlock full access to RCNi Plus today
Save over 50% on your first three months:
- Customisable clinical dashboard featuring 200+ topics
- Unlimited online access to all 10 RCNi Journals including Nursing Standard
- RCNi Learning featuring 180+ RCN accredited learning modules
- NMC-compliant RCNi Portfolio to build evidence for revalidation
- Personalised newsletters tailored to your interests
Already registered or subscribed? Log in

This article is not available as part of an institutional subscription. Why is this?
