How to Claim & Maximise ARRS Reimbursements

How to Claim & Maximise ARRS Reimbursements

How to Claim & Maximise ARRS Reimbursements

Overview

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The Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) provides funding for PCNs to recruit additional staff to expand primary care capacity. With the 2025/26 contract, understanding how to claim and maximise ARRS funding is crucial for ensuring full reimbursement and making the most of available workforce opportunities.

Key ARRS Updates for 2025/26

  1. Expanded role eligibility – Includes new roles and flexibilities in recruitment.
  2. Updated reimbursement rates to reflect cost increases.
  3. Greater integration expectations – PCNs must demonstrate how roles align with NHS priorities.
  4. Tighter reporting & workforce monitoring – More scrutiny on how funds are spent.

Action Points:

  1. Review ARRS role eligibility and reimbursement rates.
  2. Ensure proper claims submission processes to avoid funding loss.
  3. Develop plans to integrate new ARRS roles effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming ARRS Reimbursements

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1. Understand Eligible Roles & Funding Limits

  1. Review the latest NHS England ARRS guidance to confirm eligible roles.
  2. Identify which roles your PCN can still recruit for under ARRS.
  3. Ensure existing roles are properly recorded for full reimbursement.

Checklist:

  1. Confirm eligible workforce roles for 2025/26.
  2. Identify gaps in your PCN workforce to maximise claims.
  3. Ensure each role meets ARRS funding criteria.

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2. Plan Recruitment & Role Deployment Strategically

  1. Ensure new hires align with PCN service requirements.
  2. Work with local ICBs to identify workforce priorities.
  3. Implement multi-disciplinary team (MDT) planning to integrate roles effectively.

Checklist:

  1. Identify roles that will provide the most impact for your PCN
  2. Align ARRS staff recruitment with patient demand.
  3. Ensure ARRS staff are properly embedded in practice workflows.

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3. Submit ARRS Claims Efficiently

  1. Use the NHS England ARRS claim form or your local commissioner’s process.
  2. Submit monthly claims promptly to avoid delayed reimbursements.
  3. Keep detailed records of salary costs and role deployment.

Checklist:

  1. Submit monthly ARRS claims on time.
  2. Ensure accurate salary breakdowns to match funding limits.
  3. Retain supporting evidence for reimbursement audits.

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4. Monitor Funding Use & Avoid Underutilisation

  1. Track ARRS spending vs available budget to avoid underspending.
  2. Identify roles that are underperforming or underfunded.
  3. Adapt recruitment strategies to fill remaining funding gaps before the deadline.

Checklist:

  1. Monitor real-time ARRS expenditure.
  2. Adjust hiring plans to use full funding allocation.
  3. Ensure ARRS staff are deployed effectively to meet PCN priorities.

Next Steps & Deadlines

  1. Monthly – Submit ARRS claims to your commissioner.
  2. March 2026 – Ensure full utilisation of ARRS funding before year-end.

Immediate Actions:

  1. Check available ARRS funding & identify workforce gaps.
  2. Ensure monthly claims are accurate & submitted on time.
  3. Monitor ARRS staff impact and adjust recruitment as needed.

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