Working full-time in a community pharmacy offers several advantages over that of a locum. While locuming can provide greater flexibility and potentially higher pay rates, this is why you should consider a full-time role.

Job Security & Stability

A full-time role can provide greater job security and stability. As a permanent employee, you are part of the team, and you have a clear understanding of your role within the pharmacy. You have a more consistent schedule, which allows you to plan your life around your work. In contrast, locuming can be unpredictable, with shifts often changing at short notice.

Paid Leave

You will also access benefits such as holiday pay, sick pay, and pension contributions, which can significantly increase your overall income. While locuming may offer higher hourly rates, the lack of benefits can offset this and reduce your overall earnings. Additionally, if you are looking to secure a mortgage or other types of financing, having a stable full-time job can be advantagious.

Career Development

Another benefit of full-time employment is the opportunity for career advancement and development. Working in a permanent role allows you to build relationships with colleagues and managers, who can provide guidance and support in your professional growth. There may be opportunities to take on leadership roles, manage teams, or develop specialist skills through training and development programs. This can be more challenging to achieve as a locum, as you may not have the same level of exposure to opportunities for advancement.

Become Part of a Team

Working full-time also allows you to become part of the community within the pharmacy and the local area. You become part of a team, with shared values and goals, which can be very rewarding. As a locum, you move from pharmacy to pharmacy, working with different teams and patients, which can feel isolating.

Continued Patient Care

Finally, working full-time in a community pharmacy allows you to make a meaningful difference in the health and wellbeing of your patients. You have the opportunity to build relationships with regular customers, provide personalised care, and make a real impact in the community. This sense of purpose and satisfaction can be harder to achieve as a locum, who may have less time to develop meaningful connections with patients.

While locuming may offer higher pay rates, there are many benefits to working full-time in a community pharmacy. It's essential to weigh up these factors when considering which option is right for you.

If you need some impartial advice, why not arrange a call with one of our recruitment experts?