The NHS Mutually Agreed Resignation Scheme, commonly referred to as MARS, offers employees an opportunity to leave their organisation on a voluntary basis with a financial payment. This approach can be appealing to those who are already considering a career change, early retirement, or a move outside the public sector. However, it’s not a decisionto be taken lightly.

The MARS scheme is designed to offer a flexible and cost-effective way for NHS organisations to restructure their workforce. It allows staff to apply for voluntary resignation in return for a one-off payment, which is calculated based on length of service and annual salary. Importantly, this payment is discretionary, there’s no automatic right to receive it simply by applying. Each NHS trust manages its own scheme and makes decisions on a case-by-case basis. Not all applications are accepted, and an offer, if made, is often final and non-negotiable.

One of the key aims of MARS is to provide an alternative to compulsory redundancy and to support employees who are already planning to leave. The scheme can also create space for internal redeployment, giving other staff the chance to take on new roles or responsibilities. That said, it’s not suitable for everyone. It is not a redundancy, and as such, it doesn’t carry the same rights, protections, or compensation levels. Once you resign under MARS, your employment ends permanently and you cannot return to the same organisation for a defined period, typically six months. This is important for those who might be thinking about returning on a locum or bank basis.

Before submitting a MARS application, it’s wise to review your long-term goals. You’ll want to think about what comes next, whether that’s a new job, early retirement, or time out from work. The financial incentive can be helpful, but it may not stretch far, especially if your next steps are uncertain. There’s also the emotional aspect to consider: leaving the NHS, particularly after many years of service, can feel daunting.

If you are offered a resignation package under MARS, it’s essential to have the terms reviewed by someone legally qualified. While MARS doesn’t require the same type of settlement agreement typically used in redundancy or dispute-based exits, many trusts still provide written documentation outlining the conditions of your departure. You should know precisely what rights you’re giving up, whether there are any ongoing obligations, and how this might affect future employment, particularly in the public sector.

Legal advice can often be arranged quickly and on a fixed-fee basis. At Pre-Law, we regularly work with NHS staff considering MARS and similar schemes, providing a fast turnaround so you can make decisions confidently and meet any internal deadlines. The process usually involves a review of your documentation, a short consultation, and a formal letter confirming you’ve received independent advice, where required.

For more information, contact us on 01524 907100, info@pre-law.co.uk or through our online enquiry form