What Is a Locum Doctor in the UK? Salary, Benefits, and Career Guide for 2025

Working as a doctor doesn’t always mean signing a long-term contract. In the UK, there’s a growing demand for short-term medical roles.

Many professionals take up locum work for better flexibility and freedom. Instead of sticking to one hospital or clinic, they move around based on where help is needed.

The system works well for both sides. Hospitals get temporary support, and doctors get control over their schedule.

But how does it really work? And is it worth choosing locum work in 2025? Let’s look at it in this blog.

What Is a Locum Doctor in the UK?

A locum doctor is someone who fills in for another doctor on a temporary basis.

They may step in when a hospital is short-staffed or when a regular doctor takes time off. These roles can last a day, a week, or even a few months.

Most locums work through agencies, though some prefer handling it themselves.

You’ll find them in both NHS and private setups, covering all kinds of departments.

Despite being temporary, a locum doctor is fully qualified and licensed to practice like any permanent doctor.

What Does a Locum Doctor Do? Roles, Responsibilities

A locum doctor steps in where there’s a gap. But that doesn’t mean the job is simple. In fact, walking into a new hospital or clinic and getting up to speed quickly is a skill in itself.

Here’s what the job usually involves:

• Seeing patients and checking symptoms: It could be anything from a routine cough to something serious. History-taking, checking vitals, and doing a quick exam are part of the daily grind.
• Writing prescriptions: Not just signing off meds, but also understanding local rules and sticking to them.
• Covering for someone else: Sick leaves, holidays, or last-minute absences… locums keep the wheels turning when others are away.
• Shifting between departments: Some weeks it’s urgent care, next it might be GP clinics. You don’t always get to choose, but variety keeps it interesting.
• Doing paperwork: Notes must be written clearly. Discharge summaries, referrals, and clinic letters can’t be skipped, even if you’re new.
• Being open to odd shifts: Night duties, weekend calls, or a late evening walk-in clinic are all part of the mix.
  

Locum roles may be short-term, but they still demand quick thinking and a strong sense of responsibility. No shortcuts here.

Benefits of Being a Locum Doctor

• You will get paid more: Not in every case, but most locums walk away with more per hour compared to permanent doctors.
• You learn fast: Each hospital or clinic teaches you something new. That exposure sharpens your judgement.
• You skip the red tape: No long-term targets, no departmental politics. You come in, do the job, and leave. Simple.
• Less risk of burnout: Taking time off between roles helps many stay mentally balanced. It’s not just about the hours — it’s the freedom to say no.
• You can try before you stay: Thinking of joining a particular hospital? Locum there for a while before making it permanent.
  

It’s a career path that rewards both skill and flexibility, and for many, it just makes more sense.

Locum Doctor Salary in the UK: What to Expect in 2025

Based on recent Glassdoor reports, locum doctors can expect a decent salary in 2025. Rates vary depending on your grade and where you work.

A senior locum consultant in the NHS typically earns around £120,000 per year, which is higher than many permanent roles.

Junior or registrar locums usually earn between £60,000 and £70,000 annually, according to NHS bank rate guides.

For GPs, the average hourly rate sits around £85, which can bring yearly earnings close to £190,000 if you work full time.

Of course, exact take-home pay depends on hours worked, shift types, and any agency fees or tax implications.

How to Become a Locum Doctor in the UK

Becoming a locum doctor in the UK isn’t much different from becoming a permanent doctor. The main thing is that you’re working independently, so certain steps need to be handled carefully.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• Complete your medical degree: You need a recognised MBBS or equivalent qualification.
• Get registered with the GMC: A valid license from the General Medical Council is required to legally practise.
• Finish your foundation training: This typically takes two years after graduation and builds core clinical skills.
• Consider speciality training (if needed): While not always necessary, having a speciality can open higher-paying locum roles.
• Join a locum agency: Agencies help with placements, compliance checks, and paperwork. You can also work freelance.
• Provide right to work and clear background checks: ID, DBS clearance, and occupational health records are usually required.

Once these steps are ticked off, you can begin taking on shifts that suit your schedule and preferences.

Start Your Locum Journey with Secure Healthcare Solutions

Working as a locum doctor gives you the freedom to choose how, when, and where you want to work. It’s a career option that suits both experienced professionals and those just starting out.

Once your training is complete and your documents are ready, the next step is finding the right role. That’s where a reliable agency can make all the difference.

Secure Healthcare Solutions, a trusted healthcare agency in Wolverhampton, can connect you with locum jobs that match your skills and goals.

FAQs

1. Do locum doctors get paid more than full-time doctors?

In many situations, yes, locum doctors often bring home a better hourly rate. The reason is simple: hospitals and clinics usually offer higher pay when they need someone on short notice. It’s a trade-off for the flexibility they get in return.

2. Is a locum doctor fully qualified?

Yes, 100%. A locum doctor is fully qualified and registered with the GMC. They’ve gone through the same education, exams, and training as any other doctor. The only difference is that they choose short-term work instead of fixed jobs.

3. Can locum doctors work in both private and NHS settings?

They can, and many do. Whether it’s a private clinic, NHS trust, care home, or walk-in centre, locums are called in wherever there’s a staffing gap. The variety is actually what draws a lot of people to this kind of work.