📍 Locum or Permanent: Which is Right for You?
🏥 Introduction: Two Career Paths, One Big Decision
Working in London’s vibrant healthcare sector offers a wide range of job opportunities—but one of the first choices you'll need to make is whether to pursue a locum (temporary) or permanent role. Each path has its own pros, cons, and lifestyle impact. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between locum vs permanent roles, so you can decide which option best suits your goals, schedule, and career ambitions. Whether you're a nurse, healthcare assistant (HCA), or allied health worker, Bellspire Group is here to help you find the right role—in the right way.
🔁 What Is a Locum Healthcare Role?
A locum role is a temporary position where you fill in for staff who are absent or to support short-term staffing needs. These roles can last from a single shift to several weeks or months.
✅ Benefits of Locum Roles:
- Flexibility: You choose when and where you work
- Higher hourly pay: Often more than permanent roles
- Variety: Work across different settings (NHS, private, care homes)
- Work-life balance: Ideal if you prefer control over your schedule
⚠️ Things to Consider:
- No guaranteed hours
- You may miss out on workplace benefits (e.g. sick pay, pensions)
- Less continuity with teams or patients
Locum roles are great for professionals who value freedom, variety, and fast-paced environments.
🛡️ What Is a Permanent Healthcare Role?
A permanent role is a long-term position where you are contracted directly by the employer, often with a regular shift pattern and employee benefits.
✅ Benefits of Permanent Roles:
- Job stability: Predictable hours and income
- Employee benefits: Pension schemes, paid holidays, sick pay
- Team integration: Build long-term relationships with staff and patients
- Career development: Easier access to training and promotion
⚠️ Things to Consider:
- Less flexibility in schedule
- May take longer to move between roles or units
- Some roles may come with higher workloads or expectations
Permanent roles are ideal for those looking for structure, security, and professional growth.
📍 Locum or Permanent: Which is Right for You?
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Locum Role | Permanent Role |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High – You choose your shifts | Low to medium – Set rota |
| Pay Rate | Higher hourly pay | Lower hourly, but consistent salary |
| Benefits | Limited or none | Full employee benefits |
| Job Security | Short-term, no guarantees | Long-term, stable contract |
| Career Progression | Slower, less structured | Clear pathways and training |
| Work Environment | Frequently changing | Consistent team and setting |
🎯 What Bellspire Recommends
At Bellspire Group, we match London-based healthcare professionals with both locum and permanent roles depending on your experience, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
We take the time to understand:
- Your availability
- Desired location in London
- Preferred setting (hospital, care home, community, etc.)
- Whether you're seeking stability or flexibility
Our team ensures you’re fully compliant, with your DBS, NMC registration, and Right to Work documents ready—so you can start faster and with confidence.
📞 Ready to Find Your Perfect Role in London?
Whether you’re looking for the freedom of locum work or the structure of a permanent position, Bellspire Group is here to support your healthcare career in London.
👉 Apply now or contact our team to discuss which type of role is right for you.
