Locum vs Permanent Veterinary Work

The case for locum work

• Higher hourly rates, particularly for experienced vets willing to travel.
• Genuine flexibility over your calendar.
• Exposure to different practice styles, teams and equipment.
• A useful way to test a practice before considering a permanent move.

The case for permanent work

• Continuity with clients and cases, which most vets value more than they expect to.
• Sick pay, holiday pay, pension and CPD budget included.
• A team to belong to, which quietly matters more over time.
• Clearer path to certificates, leadership and long term development.

The financial reality of locum work

Headline day rates look attractive, but you need to strip out your own pension, holiday, sick pay, CPD, insurance and accountancy costs. Once you do, the gap to a strong permanent salary narrows significantly, particularly for less experienced vets.

That does not mean locum work is not worth it. It means you should model the numbers honestly before making a long term decision.

Tax and legal points to check

IR35 rules apply and are worth understanding before you take on any long assignment. A good specialist accountant is essential if you are running through your own limited company. If you are working through an umbrella, check exactly what is being deducted and why.

This is a summary, not tax advice. Speak to a qualified accountant about your own position.

How to choose

• If you value predictability, team belonging and long term development, permanent usually wins.
• If you value flexibility, variety and are comfortable running your own admin, locum can be excellent.
• A short spell of locum work between permanent roles is often a smart way to reset.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move from locum back to permanent?

Yes, and many vets do. A well presented locum CV is not a barrier.

Do practices treat locums differently?

The strongest ones do not. They include locums in team briefings and CPD where possible.