First Time As Self Employed Optician "Locum" - any tips before starting, how to declare tax etc

RKO1

Since qualifying over 10 years ago. I have never locum before and this will be my first time. I've always wanted to but the biggest reason why I've never locum is I don't know how to declare my tax as being self employed and I don't want to fall back on this. However, I have come to a stage in my career where I feel this is now necessary.

I will very much appreciate advise on tips on what to do before and during locuming. I plan to start mid April. 

Can I claim registration memberships too?
I heard I can claim travel and lunch expenses and keep receipts as proof?

As much information as necessary will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Dazed_and_C0nfused

https://www.gov.uk/working-for-yourself

https://www.gov.uk/expenses-if-youre-self-employed

SiliconChip

After you have read and digested the information that @Dazed_and_C0nfused has provided and that I expect others will suggest I would recommend that you arrange a meeting with an accountant in order to discuss the specifics of your circumstances. You may want to consider using an accountant anyway to prepare and submit your first return so that you know what to do in subsequent years.