How to become an agency nurse in the UK?
Considering a Career as an Agency Nurse in the UK?
Thinking about becoming an agency nurse in the UK? It's a fantastic option for registered nurses (RNs) seeking a flexible and varied career path. Here, we'll explore what agency nurses do, how to qualify, and the benefits of joining the A24Group family.
What is an agency nurse?
Agency nurses provide healthcare across various settings, rather than being tied to one specific facility. Our agency acts as a liaison, connecting healthcare organisations with agency nurses based on their location and specialities for temporary assignments.
Working as a Nurse in the UK from Overseas?
The UK healthcare system welcomes qualified overseas nurses. However, at A24Group we do not currently offer visa sponsorship. For visa information, visit the GOV.UK website. If you already have the right to work in the UK, we'd be happy to hear from you!
How Much Do Agency Nurses Earn?
According to Indeed.com, in 2024 the average agency nurse salary in the UK is £23.26 per hour. At A24Group, we value our nurses and offer competitive rates – some of the highest in the UK – with an average of £43.65 per hour in 2024. Use our handy pay rate calculator to see what you could potentially earn with us.
Rates can vary based on location, experience, the agency you work with, and the type of assignment. For instance, night shifts and weekends often command higher pay. The job outlook for agency nurses remains positive due to an ageing population and rising demand for healthcare services.
How to become an agency nurse:
Get a Nursing Degree: This is the foundation for your nursing knowledge in the UK and opens doors to specialised roles later.
Gain Nursing Experience: After graduating, hands-on experience is crucial. The A24Group nursing agencies require a minimum of 6 months' experience with references. Enhanced Compliance placements, often with higher pay, require at least three years’ experience and a minimum of two written references focused on clinical skills.
Register with the NMC: Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is mandatory for practice. It demonstrates that you meet professional standards and adhere to the code of conduct. When you join the A24Group, we assist you with Revalidation and continuous Compliance.
Join a Nursing Agency: Once registered, join an agency that supplies temporary nurses to healthcare facilities. You can choose assignments that suit your experience and skills. A24Group offers a variety of agencies to suit your needs:
Ambition24hours: The highest paying nursing agency in the UK, because they are specialists at placing nurses (often at very short notice) no matter how complex or challenging.
Ambition24direct Homecare Agency: This team of specialist nurses provides expert nursing care to adults and children with complex care needs in the comfort of their own homes.
Nursing Services of the UK: Exceptional nursing services for NHS trusts, care homes, and local authorities.
British Nursing Association: Supplying NHS, nursing homes, and partner banks with top-quality nursing staff. NHS Workforce Alliance and HTE Framework Approved Partner.
Grosvenor Nursing Agency: Specialises in mental health staffing across various sectors. NHS Workforce Alliance Partner.
Mayfair Specialist Nurses: A leading agency catering to specialist units.
Keep Your Skills Up-to-Date: Continuing professional development is vital for all nurses. Regular training ensures you stay current with the latest practices.
Essential Skills and Qualifications:
Agency nurses need a strong skillset. Here are some key areas:
Clinical Skills: Performing observations, administering medication, supporting doctors, maintaining patient records, and assisting with hygiene and nutrition.
Communication Skills: Effective communication with patients, doctors, families, and other healthcare professionals is essential for smooth operations and quality care.
Adaptability: Being adaptable is key in agency nursing, as you'll work in various settings with different teams and regulations.
What are the interview questions for nurses UK?
We have six standard interview questions to ensure you're well-suited for our team.
These cover your right to work, NMC registration, experience, arrival date in the UK (if applicable), DBS check, and CV.
The Rewards of Agency Nursing
Becoming an agency nurse offers an exciting and varied career. You'll gain experience in different settings, make a real difference in people's lives, and ensure high-quality care is delivered when it's needed most.
If you're a qualified and adaptable RN seeking a dynamic career, then agency nursing could be the perfect choice for you. A24Group is here to support you every step of the way.
