Understanding the Current Landscape of Locum Veterinary Pay Rates
The world of veterinary locum work is undergoing a transformation, as revealed by the findings of the latest Locum Pay Rate Survey conducted by Recruit4Vets. With responses from 497 locum vets and nurses, this sixth edition of the survey sheds light on the evolving trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the sector in 2024.
Locum Veterinary Surgeons: Pay and Experience
The survey reveals that the mean daily pay rate for locum vets is £494, marking a modest 5% year-on-year increase from the 2022 average of £449. However, this growth is a stark departure from the double-digit pay increases seen in the aftermath of Covid. The economic pressures post-Brexit and the pandemic have tempered locum pay, as many large veterinary groups have reduced their reliance on locums to control costs.
Interestingly, despite pay stagnation, locums continue to play an integral role in the veterinary workforce:
95.2% of respondents have more than three years of experience.
78% have over six years of experience, showcasing a highly skilled pool of professionals.
Regional pay differences remain insignificant, reflecting a uniform demand for locums across the UK.
Locum Veterinary Nurses: Hourly Pay Rates
The survey highlights that locum veterinary nurses earn a mean hourly rate of £23.47, reflecting a 4% annual increase from 2022 rates of £21.59. However, this is a sharp decline from the 9% annual growth observed during the Covid-19 years. Pay rates remain consistent regardless of experience, indicating that the role's financial value is more stable but less rewarding for seasoned professionals.
Changing Payment Vehicles
A significant shift has occurred in the way locums are paid, driven largely by changes to IR35 legislation:
58% of locums now operate as self-employed sole traders, compared to 28% in the last survey.
Use of limited companies has dropped to 21%, and umbrella companies account for 16%.
Only 6% of locums are employed on zero-hours contracts, reflecting a decreasing preference for traditional employment models in favour of greater flexibility and tax efficiency.
Motivations for Locum Work
The survey highlights the primary reasons why professionals choose to locum:
Flexibility remains the top motivator for 71% of respondents.
Better pay is cited by 27%, though the appeal of pay is dampened by slower rate increases.
However, there are signs of diminishing job satisfaction:
Only 72% of respondents feel their skills are being utilised effectively—unchanged from 2022 but lower than the 82% reported in 2019.
80% feel valued by practices, a slight dip from 82% in 2022 and 86% in 2019.
Navigating the Challenges Ahead
The survey underscores a pivotal shift in the locum veterinary sector. Rising economic pressures and regulatory changes are reshaping the landscape:
Pay increases are failing to keep up with inflation, creating financial challenges for locums.
Large employers are implementing stricter cost controls, reducing the upward momentum in pay rates.
Yet, the data also highlights opportunities:
The growing adoption of self-employed sole trader models signals that locums are finding ways to adapt and optimise their earnings.
Flexibility remains a significant advantage, attracting professionals who prioritise work-life balance.
A Call to Action for Employers and Locums
As the veterinary profession navigates this evolving landscape, striking a balance between cost control and fair compensation will be essential. Employers must focus on:
Offering competitive pay to retain top talent.
Providing flexible working options to address the primary motivators for locums.
For locums, staying informed about pay trends and exploring tax-efficient payment models will be crucial to sustaining financial stability in a challenging market.
This survey paints a picture of resilience and adaptability within the veterinary locum sector. As the profession continues to evolve, collaboration between locums and employers will be key to navigating these changes and ensuring a thriving veterinary workforce for the future.
Download the survey