Locum Hub
Find Locum Positions With One of UK’s Leading Locum Agencies
Locum workers are a crucial part of the healthcare workforce in the UK, performing vital services in hospitals, communities, practices and clinics across the country. Due to the nature of setting your own hours, working as a locum professional is becoming an increasingly attractive proposition.
But what actually is a locum? In this guide, we cover common questions such as what the role entails, what benefits are there to going locum, and how to become a locum.
What is a Locum?
A locum is a what you could consider a freelancer. Also know as a temporary professional. Instead of being tied to a permanent salaried position, locum medical professionals work on contracts to fulfil specific needs within public or private organisations across the UK. They step in to cover various scenarios such as staff holidays, sick leave, maternity leave, or an increased workload. Think of it as being a medical professional on retainer for when you’re needed.
Upload your CV to gain access to our locum vacancies.
The Benefits of Becoming a Locum
Flexibility
One of the major benefits of medical locum work is the increased flexibility it offers. You have complete control over where, when and how you work.
Work-Life Balance
As you have the freedom to decide how often you work, you can tailor your schedule to suit your preferences.
Variety
By working for several different employers, in a variety of settings, you will meet a diverse range of people from all walks of life, both patients and colleagues.
Contacts
There's no better way to gain mass contacts within the industry than if you worked as a locum. Future opportunities will be in their masses with the exceptional service you provide to your contracts.
Finances
Medical locum roles offer a highly competitive pay, with average rates increasing in recent years. Many professionals are drawn to locum work for its enticing financial rewards.
Experience
Working as a locum allows you to experience a variety of management styles, team dynamics, and company policies, helping you improve your interpersonal skills and broaden your professional expertise.
Locum Hub
How Do You Find Locum Work?
Finding locum work all starts with becoming a medical professional. Whether it be a Pharmacist, Optometrist, Audiologist, Dentist, GP or Vet, you will have the opportunity to become a locum. While it may seem daunting to set up as a locum, and there are a lot of things to consider and organise, but fear not as Quad Recruitment as the UK’s leading locum agencies is here to help you every step of the way.
1. Initial Agency Interview
At this stage, you may be invited into a branch/office or a digital call for a casual interview. This interview primarily focuses on discussing terms & conditions and introducing you to the team of recruiters who will help you find locum roles.
It's a valuable opportunity to meet the team, make a positive relationship, and leave a great impression. As recruiters, we hold the key to connecting you with the clients you want to work with as a locum. Use this opportunity to ask us any questions you have and gain a strong understanding of our agency and how we work.
2. Compliance
This crucial step involves handling all the necessary paperwork and bureaucracy. While it may not be the most exciting part, compliance is vital in your journey to becoming a locum. (If you are a current locum, this will be straight forward, as you should have all the documents in place already). As it often requires numerous documents and information, this step may take the longest. Here's a list of the documents we may request for your locum registration:
Full employment history (up-to-date CV)
References covering 3 years of employment (at least 2 clinical references)
Verification of identity (2 photograph IDs and 1 proof of address, OR 1 photograph ID and 2 proofs of address)
Passport-style photograph
DBS Certificate + update server checked
Overseas DBS if applicable
Full immunisation record (MMR, BCG SIGHTED, VARICELLA)
Valid mandatory training certificates
Indemnity Insurance
Professional Qualification Certificate
If a new DBS is necessary, you can apply for it using the provided link. Additionally, we'll need you to complete additional forms for your locum registration, including:
Once you provide the required documents, our compliance team will thoroughly verify them. Their checks include verifying qualifications, professional body pin, fitness to work certificate, and identity verification scan.
We recommend blocking a few hours to gather and submit all the information to our compliance team. Trying to complete the process in bits and pieces may lead to delays. If you have any questions about the requirements, our compliance team is here to assist you.
Locum Hub
Frequently asked questions
The following are some of the questions we get asked the most about how to become a locum, and what life is like as a medical locum professional.
How often will I get work as a locum?
The frequency of locum work depends on your desired hours and the agency you choose. You have the flexibility to decide how many hours you want to work each week. At Quad Recruitment, as medical recruitment experts, we strive to provide a steady flow of opportunities.
Do you need an accountant as a medical locum?
In most cases, locum's do not require an accountant. If you are working 'inside' IR35, which is typically the case, you cannot be self-employed and invoice the company directly. Instead, you must work through an umbrella company, where you will be paid via the PAYE scheme.
At Quad Recruitment, we have carefully chosen two highly reputable umbrella companies, Orange Genie and JMK offering a seamless service with the lowest charges rate in the market.
However, if you are allowed to work 'outside' of IR35 and be self-employed, you have the option to receive direct payment into your business account. In this scenario, it's advisable to consider engaging an accountant to ensure accurate tax deductions and manage your tax return effectively.
How will I get paid?
Getting paid as a locum is hassle-free. Typically, your payment will be managed through an outsourced payroll provider known as an umbrella company. The agency will transfer your pay to the umbrella company, which will then pay you via the PAYE scheme. Payments are usually processed on a weekly basis, making it convenient for you. For instance, at Quad Recruitment, we pay every Friday.
The umbrella company acts as your employer and takes care of all tax deductions and pay-related queries on your behalf. It's a seamless and straightforward process, ensuring you have no worries about your payment. The money you receive is entirely yours to keep, providing you with financial ease and stability.
Do you offer training for locums?
Absolutely! We provide a comprehensive training program for locums, known as the CSTF training. The best part is that it's entirely free and accessible digitally and remotely. You can conveniently enhance your skills and knowledge from the comfort of your own space.
If you desire physical copies of your certificates, a nominal charge of £35 will apply. (subject to price increases)
I'm currently employed and need to hand my notice in to become a full time locum. How do I do this?
We understand that handing in your notice can be a challenging step, as you are a valuable asset to your employer. To ensure a smooth and professional process, we recommend following a formal approach.
Begin by scheduling a meeting with your employer to discuss your decision and intentions. During the meeting, present them with an enveloped notice letter. For your convenience, we have a templated resignation letter available for you to use.
You can access the resignation letter template here: Resignation Template.
The various consultants at Quad Recruitment each manage their own compliance procedures. We ensure that all locum professionals possess the essential documents and information required to excel in their journey as a locum.
Ready to take the next step?
Are you ready to embark on your locum journey? Take the first step now and register with Quad Recruitment. Our team is here to support you every step of the way!
Register Now
Thank you for exploring our comprehensive guide on becoming a locum. We hope you found it helpful! If you still have questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Our team is always ready to help. You can contact us via email at info@quadrecruitment.com or call us at 01244 621477.