Self employment

Re: Self employment

Gemma Clinch — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 14:40:43 GMT

Also quick question for all those who locum - when do you invoice the practice you are working at - end of every month? Or do you ask at every practice because it is different?

Re: Self employment

Gemma Clinch — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 09:27:48 GMT

Thanks for the last 2 posts some really useful information - I am going to look into medical insurance as that is a good idea. I am currently with the VDS so am covered for legal insurance. Good to hear self-employment works! Feeling positive about my decisions so far thanks guys :)

Re: Self employment

Lisa Goodship — Mon, 02 Sep 2013 01:19:29 GMT

Yes I added a few letters to cv's, I think it's nice for people to see, the practices you've worked at and positive comments they made about you. I also knew I would be moving overseas, so wanted to have some references I could also show perspective employers, not only for skills but character reference aswell. Really did enjoy it and would do it again.

Sorry no suggestions on the medical insurance front.

Re: Self employment

Charmaloo88 — Sun, 01 Sep 2013 21:28:01 GMT

Hi Gemma

I've been locumming for nearly a year now and been self employed from the start - in fact this very afternoon I completed my first self assessment tax return which was a hell of a lot easier than I initially thought!
A few agencies allow you to be registered self employed and you're therefore responsible for your own taxes and national insurance, but you have to remember they charge the practice more per hour than what you actually get paid. When I started I accepted what is now considered an average hourly rate and it is very difficult to get the agency to pay more.

Send out a load of CVs, get business cards made (they're very cheap online!) and once you start out word of mouth will do you a big favour. I've had several jobs outside the locum agency where I've known staff from previous practices or local practices have spoken to each other and passed on my details (with my permission obviously!). The veterinary world is scarily small and this can work to your advantage.

As for insurance I don't have medical cover (silly me!) but do have professional liability insurance through a company called Greybrook, you'll find that not all practices insurance cover locum nurses and a years cover was only about £180. Now that we're responsible for our actions it's better to be safe than sorry!

Anyone that considers locum work I tell them to go for it. If it's not for you then there's plenty of permanent positions in the UK. I love it and it's allowed me to travel the world

Re: Self employment

Gemma Clinch — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 06:44:05 GMT

Hi Lisa thanks for the post - I'm interested about your portfolio. Did you forward that on to all practices you were applying for along with your cv then? I like the idea. So you found self-employment an enjoyable and successful route? And good point made about medical insurance - any companies you would recommend?

Re: Self employment

Lisa Goodship — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 00:22:28 GMT

see my comments on 'finding a new job' question - maybe of some help.

I spent a couple of years in Ealing, London and Guildford Locum Nursing - found permanent job through it where I was really happy.

Did rupture my ACL playing touch rugby a week into though, which held me back a little - went to work in Robert jones!! so if you are able maybe think of medical insurance

any more help or questions let me know - good luck