NHS employment and Sole Trader

goldhair86

I’m employed full time with the NHS but want to start up my own small business as a sole trader. 

I’ve gone through my work contract and can’t find anything stating whether this is or isn’t allowed.
Is there anyone on here in the same situation and can let me know what the rules around this are please?
Thanks

Hoenir

On the basis that it doesn't interfere with your full time role there shouldn't be any issues. Many people have sidelines to generate extra income. 

Flugelhorn

plenty of people in the NHS have small businesses on the side. I was an NHS doctor but did acupuncture as a private business, some nurses I knew did botox treatments etc.

 

DullGreyGuy

goldhair86 said:

I’m employed full time with the NHS but want to start up my own small business as a sole trader. 

I’ve gone through my work contract and can’t find anything stating whether this is or isn’t allowed.
Is there anyone on here in the same situation and can let me know what the rules around this are please?
Thanks

The contract doesn't have to grant you permission but would have to state something if you needed permission or it wasnt allowed. So if the contract is mute on the matter its fully allowable as long as your business doesn't interfere with your work for your employer

NorthernJoe

The OP may or may not be referring to private medical services but the principals are the same for any second job/side line - Many NHS doctors doing private practice will do it as a sole-trader (others through a LTD company). 

Private practice in particular is being increasingly scrutinised - many employers will ask that it is included in the job plan but as others have said, so long as it doesn't interfere with NHS commitments & existing job plan/sessions there shouldn't be an issue. 

Best to formally declare it to your employer regardless of what it involves particularly if a significant time commitment or potential conflict of interests