Mental health nurse Salary UK
Mental health nurses in the UK earn a median salary of £40,028 a year (ONS ASHE 2025, gross pay, all employee jobs), and the middle half earn between £31,368 and £45,647. The figures cover the ONS occupation group “Mental health nurses” (SOC 2235).
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £40,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For mental health nurses, £42,692 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +9.0% versus the national average. Experienced mental health nurses (top 25%) earn over £45,647.
About this role
Mental health nurses provide clinical care to patients across a range of healthcare settings. They assess patient needs, plan and deliver nursing interventions, administer medications and support patients through treatment and recovery.
Key responsibilities
- Assessing patient health needs and developing care plans
- Administering medications and clinical treatments
- Monitoring patient progress and responding to changes in condition
- Supporting patients and families with health education
- Maintaining accurate clinical records and documentation
Qualifications and entry routes
Requires a nursing degree (BSc or postgraduate) approved by the NMC, followed by NMC registration. Specialist roles require additional postgraduate training and qualifications.
Career outlook
Severe workforce shortages across the UK, particularly in mental health, community and emergency nursing. Strong career progression opportunities into advanced practice and leadership.
Key skills
Common industries
- NHS
- Private hospitals
- Community health
- Mental health
- Care homes
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£31,368
0-2 years
Mid Level
£31,368
3-7 years
Senior
£45,647
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +46% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 14.8%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£2,664
Mental health nurse salary: common questions
How much do mental health nurses earn in the UK?
Is £42,692 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for mental health nurses?
Have mental health nurses salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for mental health nurses?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025). How the figures are built: salary data methodology.