Becoming a Locum as a Newly Qualified Pharmacist- Tips and Advice Welcome!

ViktoriaSophiaa_

Hi everyone,

I’m a newly qualified pharmacist and could really use some advice from anyone who’s self-employed or has done locum work before.

Bit of background – I worked as a dispenser in a hospital for 6 years whilst at uni, then did my pre-reg there too. I absolutely loved hospital pharmacy and prefer the clinical side of things, but I’m also a single mum, and to be completely honest, after all those years studying, I just want to earn a decent income and have more flexibility for my son. He’s 12 now, and I’m very aware I’ve only got a few years left before he becomes more independent and wants to spend less time with me! 

I joined Boots about 2 months ago as a store-based pharmacist because I thought the stability would be good while I found my feet, but I’ve picked it up pretty quickly and I’m now leaning towards going locum for the flexibility. Boots is quite full-on, and I’d love to be able to plan my own hours and take time off during school holidays.

When I was a uni student, I used to work bank shifts at the hospital, so I’m used to managing my own rota and budgeting. The only thing that’s making me hesitate is that I’ve never been self-employed before.

I’d really appreciate any practical advice on things like:

• What do I need to set up as self-employed? (HMRC, tax, National Insurance, etc.)
• Should I get an accountant — and how much do they typically cost?
• How do I find a good accountant who works specifically with pharmacists/locums?
• Any tips for keeping on top of finances, expenses, or record-keeping?
• Anything you wish you’d known before starting locum work?

Thanks in advance to anyone who can share their experience – would love to hear how others found the transition to locuming!

SiliconChip

Here's a good starting point.

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/self-employment-detailed-information

strawb_shortcake

When my Daughter worked in a pharmacy they had a locum nearly every weekend, but they usually came from Birmingham way which is around a 90 minute trip for them. Not sure if this was representative for all locums but if so you may need to  be prepared to travel. 

Also based on my Daughter's experience I hope the customers are kinder than they were to my then 16 year old Daughter! The amount and type of abuse she got was disgusting.

Flugelhorn

ViktoriaSophiaa_ said:

I’d really appreciate any practical advice on things like:

• What do I need to set up as self-employed? (HMRC, tax, National Insurance, etc.)
• Should I get an accountant — and how much do they typically cost?
• How do I find a good accountant who works specifically with pharmacists/locums?
• Any tips for keeping on top of finances, expenses, or record-keeping?
• Anything you wish you’d known before starting locum work?

I locummed as a GP (as well as being employed) - I had an accountant, there are plenty around who deal with doctors and allied professionals - they also understood the pension scheme which helped.,

They did the self employment bit for me (but it was ages ago so can't remember the details) 

There are probably apps now that help with all the financial side - keeping track of invoices and expenses etc (I just OH to do it) 

Remember: allow for down time - both remember to take time off and have some savings for when sessions are not available 
Put aside enough for the tax - saw several colleagues make errors there and had big unexpected bills
Look at income protection type things in case you are off sick etc 

Other option is to be bank staff ( if they have such) as that can give some security  / pension / sick pay etc 

Marcon

Google on 'getting work as a Locum pharmacist' and you'll get a whole load of suggestions and links on how to set up, get work etc.