NHS England has launched the New to Partnership Payment Scheme (the “scheme”) which is now open to applications for partners who will be accepting or have already accepted a partnership role on or after 01 April 2020. We explain the additional criteria of eligibility for the scheme and what its commitments and benefits entail.

Who will be eligible to join the scheme?

The scheme is aimed at supporting registered health care professionals to become practice partners through the creation of a learning fund to develop skills coupled with a financial payment. It is important to note that the Scheme is only open to clinical partners (general practitioner, nurse (including ANP), pharmacist, pharmacy technician, physiotherapist, paramedic, midwife, dietitian, podiatrist, occupational therapist, mental health practitioner) who are new to partnership and have not previously been a partner in England.

The new partner must have signed a partnership agreement on or after 1 April 2020 to be eligible.

What conditions and benefits are included?

Participants must be ready to commit to at least five years of an equity share partnership, and to delivering a minimum of two clinical sessions per week.

Successful applicants will receive:

1. A training fund of up to £3,000 to support early partnership skills development which must be undertaken in year 1; and
2. A sum of £20,000 (for a FTE role which equals 37.5 hours per week and pro rata for those working part time) to support their establishment as a new partner; and
3. A 20% contribution towards tax and National Insurance payments.

The grant and training allowance is intended to be non-superannuable income.

How can I apply?

Applicants and their practice will need to complete the application form found on the NHSEI website, and provide supplementary evidence to support their application.

How can Capsticks help?

Capsticks’ Primary Care Group knows the workings of healthcare practices inside and out, including the commercial challenges they face. Our legal experts understand the need for robust contractual arrangements, and can arrange a new partnership deed for you or revise and update your existing one. In addition, our team is able to prepare you for new collaboration models, resolve disputes and handle employment and property law aspects.

If you have any queries around what's discussed in this insight, and the impact on your Primary Care organisation, please speak to Puja Solanki, or any of your contacts at Capsticks, to find out more about how we can help.