FAQs

I want to get into locum work but don't know where to begin?
Deciding to work as a professional locum can be a daunting time. There are many aspects to consider including payment methods and conduct of professional locums. To discuss your move into the locum market please call a locum consultant in the strictest confidence on 0121 454 1004.

How do locums get paid?
There are 3 main methods of payment for locum professionals:

  • PAYE (Pay As You Earn)  - This is a common method of payment for locums and eNL can provide full payment advice. Essentially the locum works via eNL and is pay rolled via our internal payroll system. eNL will arrange all tax and NI and will pay you directly into you bank account for all hour?s works. A timesheet is provided by eNL which will need to be signed each week, simply fax this back to us and we arrange the rest.
  • Self Employed - Some professional locums choose the self employed route. The locum will invoice the client directly for the hours worked each week and the client will pay them directly. The locum is then responsible for all tax and national insurance. To find out how you can become self employed please seek professional advice or visit your accountant.
  • Limited Company/Umbrella Companies - Many professional locums set up their own limited company/umbrella company, this is once again best done through an accountant. You will fill out a timesheet each week and eNL will pay you each week directly to the limited company. The limited company/umbrella company is then responsible for tax and NI.

How long do locum assignments last?
This is a difficult one to answer, we assist our clients with all locum needs ranging form short term holidays covers to long term contracts (sometimes up to 18 months) At the registration process you can let our consultants know your preference and we will endeavour to find you assignments that match your requirements.

Will I be guaranteed to be in work year round?
Our consultants can never promise that you will be in work all year, especially at present with the currently climate. However, our consultants are always on hand to provide market knowledge and advice to ensure you know the best route to take at each stage.

If I locum for a while can I return to permanent work?
eNL provide both locum and permanent assistance to all our candidates. We have many candidates who have completed locum assignments before returning to permanent work and we are happy to assist with both preferences.

Am I responsible for my own practising certificate and CPD?
As a locum you are on the whole responsible for your own practising certificate and CPD. Usually the only exception is when a locum is placed in a fixed term contract ? the client will then take responsibility for a pro rata involvement towards both your practising certificate and CPD points.

Am I covered by professional indemnity insurance?
In 99% of cases locum and temporary members of staff are covered by the clients professional indemnity insurance. If you are unsure at any time please contact a member of the locum team and we will gladly check for you.

Why do firms use locums?
Our clients use locums for a variety of reasons from short term holiday/sickness cover to long contracts for maternity cover. In addition, locums are also employed for their specialist expertise for specific projects when a client may lack expertise in a certain area.

If you have any questions that have not been answered, please feel free call a consultant on 0121 454 1004, or email your query to enl@enllegal.co.uk