Finding Locum Placements as a Doctor in the UK

Working as a locum doctor is a popular route for many doctors in the UK, especially for those early in their careers. It offers flexibility, variety and the chance to take more control over your schedule. For doctors considering different specialties or just wanting a break from rigid training structures, locum work can be a great way to gain hands-on experience across different settings.

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But while there are clear benefits, working as a locum isn’t without its challenges. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to get started, the main ways to find work, and what the locum landscape currently looks like.

What is Locum Work?

Locum doctors fill short-term staffing gaps across hospitals and GP practices. These gaps might be due to sickness, maternity leave, annual leave, or simply because a permanent position hasn’t been filled. Locum shifts can range from a single day to months-long contracts, and they can be in large city hospitals or small rural practices.

One of the biggest draws of locum work is the autonomy it gives. You’re not tied to long contracts or rotations, which means you can choose when and where you work. It’s also a way to step back from the more rigid path of formal training or permanent roles.

That said, it’s not all smooth sailing. Income can be unpredictable, especially if you’re relying on last-minute shifts. Unlike training jobs, you typically don’t get paid sick leave, annual leave, or pension contributions. Plus, jumping between unfamiliar workplaces can be tough and you’ll need to adapt quickly to different systems, protocols, and teams. And if you’re aiming for a structured career path, locuming might slow things down a bit since you’re less likely to have regular supervision or formal training.

How to Find Locum Work

There are two main routes into locum work: NHS staff banks and locum agencies. Many doctors use both to increase their options.

1. NHS Staff Banks

Most NHS Trusts run their own staff banks. It is basically a pool of doctors they contact to cover gaps. If you’re on the staff bank, you’ll get offered shifts directly, often with little notice.

Pros:

Flexible shifts that you can pick and choose
Familiar environments, which makes the job easier and less stressful
Early access to shifts before they go to agencies
Cheaper for trusts, which might make you a preferred choice

Cons:

You’re limited to one trust, which can reduce variety and pay potential
The sign-up process can be slow and admin-heavy
You might have to negotiate your own pay, which not everyone feels confident doing

2. Locum Agencies

Agencies act as go-betweens for doctors and healthcare organisations, offering shifts across various locations and specialties.

Pros:

More opportunities across different trusts and even private providers
Agencies usually handle paperwork and compliance, saving you time
They often negotiate pay on your behalf, which can result in better rates

Cons:

Agencies charge trusts, which can limit how often you’re booked
Some agencies are better than others. Quality and transparency vary
Relying too much on one agency can limit your options, so it’s smart to register with a few

Mind Recruit

Mind Recruit is a London-based medical recruitment agency specialising in mental health and broader clinical locum roles across the UK. Founded in 2020, it has quickly earned a reputation as a trusted partner for NHS trusts and private providers.

What They Offer

Specialist focus in mental health: covering all grades of psychiatry—from junior doctors to consultants—as well as opportunities for psychologists, mental health nurses, AHPs, support workers, social workers, and therapists.
Flexible contracts: their vacancies include locum, temporary, and permanent placements to fit around study schedules, exam preparation, and leisure time .
Nationwide reach: as a framework-approved agency with partnerships across NHS trusts and the independent sector, they truly cover all UK regions .

Benefits for FY1 & FY2 Doctors

Perfect for exploring specialities
Early in training? Locuming is a brilliant way to try different mental health environments—like CAMHS, forensic units, or inpatient wards—without long-term commitment.
Built-in support
Mind Recruit helps with logistics such as arranging same-day payments for eligible locums and even sourcing accommodation when working away from home .
Boost your CV
Experience diverse environments, handle different caseloads, and gain confidence dealing with varying clinical teams—strengthening your portfolio for future applications.
Fitter to your timetable
Mix locum shifts with FY1/FY2 commitments or study blocks—this flexibility supports better work-life balance during a demanding training period.

By partnering with Mind Recruit, you get a specialist agency that understands both the demands on early-career doctors and the complexities of mental health staffing. They offer tailored placements, swift support, and valuable experiences to help you shape your career with confidence.

If you’re thinking of trying locum work alongside FY training, Mind Recruit is definitely one to consider.

What’s the Locum Market Like Right Now?

Locum work has always been appealing, but things have become more competitive recently. According to a 2024 survey by the BMA, 84% of locum GPs in England said they’re struggling to find consistent work, and about a third are thinking about leaving the NHS altogether due to money worries and job insecurity.

In Scotland, the NHS has come under fire for over-relying on locum psychiatrists, especially in rural areas. While locums can be a lifeline in the short term, this has raised concerns about continuity of care and patient outcomes.

Budgets are tightening, and employment laws are shifting. Add in regional workforce plans, and it’s clear the days of easy, well-paid locum work are becoming less predictable. If you’re heading into this space, being flexible and proactive is more important than ever.

Tips for Securing Locum Work

1. Sign Up Broadly
Don’t just rely on one agency or trust bank. Spread your options, this gives you more flexibility and increases your chances of picking up regular work.

2. Get Your Paperwork in Order
Keep your documents (CV, GMC registration, immunisation proof, DBS check, references) up to date and ready to go. Delays in compliance can mean missing out on shifts.

3. Network
Talk to your colleagues, mentors, and supervisors. A lot of locum work is filled informally through word of mouth before it’s even advertised.

4. Stay Flexible
Being open to different specialties, locations, and shift patterns will increase your chances. Some rural or hard-to-fill roles even offer better pay and perks like free accommodation.

5. Know Your Rights
Even as a locum, you have the right to breaks, safe working conditions, and fair treatment. Make sure you’re familiar with NHS employment standards, and don’t hesitate to contact the BMA if something doesn’t feel right.

Locum work can offer a fantastic mix of freedom, variety, and control over your career. Whether you’re taking a breather between training posts, trying out different specialties, or simply craving more autonomy, there’s real value in this path.

Of course, it comes with its own pressures, like less job security, fewer benefits, and the need to be your own advocate. But with a bit of planning, the right support, and a flexible mindset, locum work can be a rewarding and sustainable part of your medical career.