NHS pay question

[tempchange321]

I've recently been applied and been successful for a job at the next grade up at work (NHS agenda for change). I was at the top of the lower band for a few years and the timing of the promotion (last month) has meant a pretty small pay rise which will stay the same for the next 5 years.
I feel like I've made a mistake and the job is not for me. I also don't know if I'm cut out for the higher grade work and wish I hadn't applied. I remember a colleague saying (at the time of applying - when I was expressing some worries) that I could always apply for the lower band roles again if I was unhappy. I'm not at that stage yet but if I did does anyone know whether I'd be able to go back in at the top, or would I be forced to start at the bottom again? I was in the previous band for over 5 years.
If I was forced to go back to the bottom of the pay scales it would make a downward move impossible, but I just want to understand what my options are.
Appreciate it's a bit niche ps name changed for that reason

You should go in at the top of the lower band but you might have to ask to make sure. You aren’t asking or negotiating a higher salary it’s pay protection in the NHS so you can’t ask for say a band 5 banding if it’s a band 4 job but you can salary protect up the top of band 4.

Thanks oinky- it's all my fault and it will take time to get another role but I just don't want to restrict to my new higher band (especially as money-wise it's minimal difference) however I couldn't afford to go back to bottom of previous pay band!

Are you absolutely sure you will be on the same pay for 5 years? Seems strange.

Agree with @Musicalmaestro unless your at the top of the band you should go up the increments each year.. the only exception is if you’ve not completed all your annual mandatory training by your appraisal date and then they can stop your increment until your back up to date with mandatory training

@Musicalmaestro @Poppiesway1
Depending what band OP is referring to, they are right, you don't get the yearly increments anymore.
I'm an a B8 role and am on same pay for 5 years.

OP- yes, if you go back down a band you should be able to return to the top of the banding. However, if this does occur, make sure you negotiate this before signing contracts

Thanks all and yes it's exactly that Cat So I'm feeling reassured that I should be able to go back to top of previous band (once I find a new job!) although I'm often surprised by HR at our place so stranger things could happen. Thank you so much for the responses