Is It Possible to Work as a Locum Without an Agency?

Locum work offers healthcare professionals flexibility, variety and the opportunity to earn a good income. Traditionally, agencies have played a major role in arranging locum shifts, acting as the middleman between workers and NHS Trusts.

But many professionals are now asking a different question: is it possible to work as a locum without using an agency?

The answer is yes. In fact, more and more doctors, nurses and allied health professionals are moving towards direct shift booking models that give them more control, better financial transparency and an improved working experience.

Here is everything you need to know about working as a locum without an agency.

Why Healthcare Professionals Want to Avoid Agencies

Loss of Pay to Agency Fees

Agencies often charge Trusts high fees to supply staff. These costs can reduce your pay, especially if umbrella companies are involved, adding deductions that are not always clear at the start.

Lack of Flexibility and Choice

Although agencies claim to offer flexibility, you are often dependent on them offering you shifts. You have limited ability to see all available work and may be pushed towards less desirable shifts.

Complicated Compliance

Each time you register with a new agency, you usually have to repeat time-consuming compliance processes. This duplication wastes your time and delays your ability to start working.

Reduced Connection to the Trust

When you work through an agency, you can feel disconnected from the Trusts you help. This can affect teamwork, communication and even your access to career development opportunities.

How You Can Work as a Locum Without an Agency

It is completely possible to arrange your locum work without relying on a traditional recruitment agency. There are two main ways to do this:

Direct Registration with NHS Staff Banks

Many NHS Trusts have their own internal staff banks. By registering directly, you can access shifts at the Trust without an agency in between.

• You are paid directly by the Trust
• You receive NHS pay rates and enhancements
• You can build relationships with local teams

However, if you want to work across multiple Trusts, you would normally have to register with each one separately, which can be time-consuming.

Using a Collaborative Staff Bank Platform

Platforms like Flexzo Ai offer a smarter way. Flexzo Ai connects you to multiple NHS Trusts through a single registration and compliance process.

• You access a wide range of shifts
• You avoid agency fees and umbrella company deductions
• You have full visibility over available work
• You remain in control of when and where you work

Collaborative platforms are quickly becoming the preferred option for healthcare professionals who want flexibility without the limitations of agency work.

Benefits of Working Locum Shifts Without an Agency

Financial Transparency

When you work without an agency, your earnings are clearer. You are paid NHS-aligned rates without hidden deductions, and you know exactly what you are earning for each shift.

More Control Over Your Work

You choose your shifts based on your own preferences, not what an agency offers you. You can plan your work around your life instead of the other way around.

Simplified Compliance

Instead of repeating paperwork for each new agency, platforms like Flexzo Ai manage your compliance in one place. You upload your documents once and stay shift-ready with automatic reminders.

Improved Relationships with Trusts

Working directly with Trusts allows you to build stronger professional connections. Familiarity with teams and systems improves patient care and makes your shifts more rewarding.

Better Career Opportunities

When you are more visible to NHS organisations, you have better access to long-term roles, specialist projects, or even permanent positions if you ever want to move back to a more structured post.

What to Expect When Booking Shifts Directly

1. Compliance First

You will still need to complete compliance checks, including DBS clearance, right-to-work documentation, occupational health screening, and proof of professional registration.

Flexzo Ai makes this process easy by allowing you to manage your documents through one secure platform, with automatic reminders when renewals are due.

2. Real-Time Shift Access

Instead of waiting for agency consultants to call, you view available shifts yourself through an app or portal. You can book shifts in real time that match your availability and skills.

3. NHS-Aligned Pay Rates

You are paid directly by NHS Trusts in line with national frameworks, including enhancements for unsocial hours. There are no hidden agency margins or deductions from umbrella companies.

4. More Flexibility

You have genuine flexibility to work when and where you want. Pick up extra shifts one week, reduce your hours the next, or focus only on certain specialties or locations.

Common Questions About Working Without an Agency

Final Thoughts

Working as a locum without an agency is not just possible — it is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for healthcare professionals across the NHS. By using tools that streamline compliance, offer direct booking, and provide transparent pay, you can take full control of your working life.

If you are ready to make the switch, platforms like Flexzo Ai make the process simple and efficient. Take the next step toward a more flexible, financially rewarding career today.