Locum Agency - Northern Ireland

[geordie1]

I have tried a few of the agencies that cover the rest of the uk but a few have said they do not cover NI.

Anyone know an agency that does? Anyone working there able to recommend one?

[lamzee]

Retail pharmacies in NI have no need to use agencies and pay them a fee when there are shedloads of unemployed pharmacists out there.

[geordie1]

So is it a case of taking business cards and introducing yourself to as many pharmacies in the area?

[lamzee]

Well, you could do that, yes, but you will probably find 30 other locums have been there before you. Many younger pharmacists have already left for Scotland.

[geordie1]

So what other ways can a pharmacist make money in NI then? Are hospital jobs advertised through NHS jobs normally?

I suppose that permanent positions are hard to come by in the region as well? i guess a bit of luck is probably required and never saying no to a booking if you get offered.

Would anyone recommend any agencies as a starting point? or any that cover both england and NI as i could always spend a week away each month working and the rest of the month take odd locums that arise.

[johnep]

Do you enjoy beating your head against a brick wall?
johnep

[Katie]

contact some of the larger chains, boots is usually looking for flexible locums - if you are happy to do a week or two up in the highlands every now and then they should be happy to accomodate.

[lamzee]

contact some of the larger chains, boots is usually looking for flexible locums -.

That's not the case in NI. Most of the "flexible locums" got dumped for relief pharmacists several years ago.

[johnep]

In other words, enjoy a holiday in NI as being advertised on TV. Work? no chance.
johnep

[culchie82]

The UCA are currently putting out the idea that the current economic situation in the North is affecting the locum situation there. Could anybody explain how this is the case, if a) No Pharmacies have closed down b) Pharmacists holiday's entitlement have not been reduced c) The number of training days/events has not been reduced d) Pharmacist's salaries have not been reduced. Why will they not just cut the bullcrap and admit there is a massive over- supply of Pharmacists in the North.