Locum doctors FAQs

How long does it take to register?

The registration process can be completed within 48 hours if you have required documentation readily available including a current DBS on the update service.

How will I be informed of locum work?

The recruitment team will work in a way that suits you, this can be either by telephone, email or text or a combination of the three methods.

How will I be paid?

As an agency we are able to pay through PAYE, a compliant umbrella company, or via your own PSC (IR35 public sector deductions will apply to payments).

When will I be paid?

If you are paid via Care Locums, we run several payrolls weekly:
Monday – Payment to clear Tuesday
Wednesday – Payment to clear Thursday
Friday – Payment to clear Friday (same day)

If you are paid through one of the NHS trust’s direct engagement portals, please speak to your recruitment consultant as each payment process varies.

Will I be paid for my breaks?

A standard NHS trust will deduct 20 minutes for shifts over six hours and one hour for shifts over 12 hours. However, trusts and private providers have their own break policy and you should speak to your recruitment consultant about each trust/provider you want to work with.

Do I get holiday pay?

Yes, as a PAYE or umbrella worker you will receive a base rate of pay and holiday pay. If you work through your own PSC your holiday pay is paid by your PSC.

I booked a shift through Care Locums but I am being paid by the client?

Over the last few years it has become increasingly common for trusts to use agency workers through direct engagement platform such as PWC’s STAFFflow. Direct engagement is where the agency arranges an introduction of a worker for a set contract with an agreed pay rate in which the trust pays you directly. This enables the trust to save VAT on the workers rate ensuring the trust can maximise their savings when using temporary workers.

Who will I deal with?

On registration you will be assigned a dedicated recruitment consultant. We do this not only to improve your experience but also because each recruitment consultant will solely look after one specialty in a particular location. This ensures you can be provided with as much information on the hospital, department and job role as possible and ensure you are notified of only the work relevant to your specialty and skills.

Will I be notified of my documents expiring?

Yes – our dedicated compliance team will contact you to ensure all documentation is kept up to date. This ensures you don’t miss out on any work due to not meeting the necessary framework compliance requirements.