For GP practices and Primary Care Networks (PCNs), the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) offers a significant opportunity to grow multidisciplinary teams, ease pressure on GPs and improve access for patients. But while the funding is there, making the most of it can be challenging without the right support.
At Vela Medical Group, we help practices unlock the full potential of ARRS funding by placing the right clinicians into the right roles, compliantly and efficiently.
What Is ARRS?
The ARRS was introduced to give PCNs funding for additional healthcare professionals outside of the traditional GP model. These roles include:
- Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs)
- Clinical Pharmacists
- Paramedic Practitioners
- First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs)
- Social Prescribers
- Mental Health Practitioners
- Care Coordinators
- Locum GPs (in specific circumstances)
ARRS is designed to reduce the workload of GPs and improve access to personalised care by introducing a broader skill mix. Each PCN is allocated an annual budget that can be used to reimburse salaries, training and some associated costs for eligible roles.
Common Challenges for PCNs
Despite the opportunity ARRS provides, many PCNs struggle to implement it fully. Common issues include:
- Difficulty identifying the right mix of roles for their population needs
- Delays in recruitment and onboarding
- Concerns around compliance and CQC expectations
- Lack of time and capacity to manage the process
That is where Vela Medical Group can help.
How Vela Supports Practices with ARRS Delivery
Targeted Role Planning
We work with PCNs to understand their service pressures, population needs and long-term goals. By doing so, we can recommend which ARRS roles would deliver the greatest benefit. Whether you need to expand long-term condition management, reduce GP appointment demand or improve medication reviews, we help you plan your workforce strategically.
Access to Skilled, ARRS-Ready Clinicians
Vela provides experienced clinicians who are already working in or trained for ARRS-funded roles. This includes ANPs confident in autonomous triage, Clinical Pharmacists with experience in medication reviews and FCPs who support musculoskeletal care in primary settings. We understand the requirements of each role and supply professionals who meet them.
Full Compliance and Documentation
ARRS roles must meet strict requirements for reimbursement. Vela handles every element of pre-placement compliance, including right-to-work checks, enhanced DBS clearance, qualification verification and full referencing. We ensure all documentation is in place so your PCN remains compliant and audit-ready.
Flexible Recruitment and Support
We offer both temporary and permanent recruitment solutions, depending on your needs and available budget. Vela consultants provide ongoing support, ensuring placements are successful and aligned with your wider service goals. If a clinician is not the right fit, we will find an alternative quickly and efficiently.
The Vela Advantage
Practices choose Vela because we:
- Specialise exclusively in primary care recruitment
- Understand the structure and funding model of ARRS
- Place only vetted, highly capable clinicians
- Support practices and PCNs with advice, flexibility and speed
With ARRS funding set to increase further, now is the time to build the team your practice needs.
Make Your ARRS Funding Work Harder
Whether you are just starting with ARRS or want to expand your team further, Vela Medical Group can help. We support practices and PCNs across the UK to recruit, onboard and retain high-quality, ARRS-eligible professionals.
Get in touch with Vela today to discuss your workforce needs and start making the most of your ARRS funding.