Why Veterinary Locum Roles Are on the Rise: The Changing Landscape of Vet Work
The veterinary profession is rapidly evolving. Rising pet ownership and changing work preferences are reshaping how vets and nurses approach their careers. One of the clearest trends we’re seeing is the growth of veterinary locum roles UK, which provide flexibility for professionals and essential cover for practices. What was once seen as a stopgap between permanent roles is now becoming a deliberate career path. With competitive pay, variety, and freedom, locum work is transforming the way the industry operates.
What Are Locum Roles & Why Do They Exist?
In veterinary practice, a locum is a professional who temporarily fills a role when permanent staff are unavailable or when demand exceeds capacity. This can range from covering maternity leave to providing seasonal support.
For practices, locums are a lifeline that ensures patient care continues uninterrupted. For professionals, veterinary locum roles in the UK offer diverse experiences, exposure to different clinics, and, in many cases, higher day rates. According to a 2024 salary survey by SPVS, locum vets have seen the median daily rate increase by 6% to £450, and night rates have increased by 12% to £840. For locum nurses, daily rates have increased by 26% to £250.
The Impact of Covid-19 & Workforce Shifts
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated long-standing issues within the profession. During the UK lockdowns, practices saw increased workloads as 3.2 million new pets were acquired in the UK. The number of EU-qualified vets entering the UK also dropped by 68% post-Brexit, creating further pressure.
Changing economic conditions have further pushed many vets to reconsider their working lives. A survey by Veterinary Practice in 2025 revealed that 34.1% of professionals had been in their role for under a year, highlighting increased mobility and shifting career priorities. Locum work provides an escape route from burnout, offering control over schedules and the ability to step away from rigid contracts. In short, the pandemic didn’t just disrupt veterinary work – it reshaped it.
Work-Life Balance and Flexibility Demands
Flexibility has become the single biggest driver behind the rise of veterinary locum roles in the UK. Many locums cite this factor as their primary reason for choosing temporary work (about 10% more than those who mention pay). Real-life stories reinforce the data. One Devon-based locum vet explained to us:
“Switching to locum work allowed me to balance childcare and still practise the profession I love. I can choose when I work — and when I don’t.”
These lived experiences resonate with younger vets entering the profession, many of whom value autonomy and variety over traditional long-term security.
Is This the Future of Veterinary Employment?
The growing popularity of locum roles suggests they are no longer just a short-term fix. Many experts believe the profession is moving towards a hybrid model, where permanent teams are supported by locum staff. This shift reflects broader workplace changes across the UK economy, where flexibility and autonomy are increasingly prioritised.
For vets and vet nurses, the message is clear: veterinary locum roles in the UK are no longer the exception; they are becoming an integral part of the profession’s future. If current trends continue, the industry may need to rethink training, retention, and even the business model of practices, making locum work not just a solution but a cornerstone of the veterinary landscape.
The Key Challenges of Locum Work – and How to Overcome Them
While locum work offers flexibility and variety, it also presents unique challenges. Locums may face uncertainty around the consistency of work, varying pay rates, and differences in clinic systems and protocols. Adapting quickly to new teams and environments can be stressful, especially for those working across multiple practices in a short time.
Tax and administrative responsibilities can also be daunting for some. Locums often need to manage invoicing, pensions, and self-employment paperwork, which can feel overwhelming for those new to temporary work. However, these challenges are increasingly mitigated by supportive recruitment agencies and experienced networks.
Many locums find that the independence and diversity of experience outweigh the challenges. Over time, professionals gain confidence, build strong networks, and develop skills that could be harder to achieve in permanent roles. Locum work can also provide a pathway to long-term opportunities, as some positions evolve into permanent roles or ongoing partnerships with practices.
In short, while locum work requires adaptability and organisation, it rewards professionals with freedom, variety, and career growth, making it an increasingly attractive and sustainable choice.
For practices, locums are essential. For professionals, they offer balance, control, and new opportunities. Together, they’re shaping the future of veterinary employment.
“Synergy Vets came to my aid, addressing all my questions and guiding me through my locuming journey. They introduced me to diverse practices, from small first opinion branches to expansive referral hospitals, making my career challenging and exciting again.” – Gosia Madej, Locum RVN
Considering going locum? Read more testimonials and get inspired here, or explore current locum opportunities with Synergy Vets today.
FAQs on Veterinary Locum Roles UK
1. Do veterinary locum roles UK pay more than permanent jobs?
Often yes. Most locum vets earn between £300–£500 per day, though they may not receive the same benefits as permanent roles.
2. Are veterinary locum roles suitable for new graduates?
While possible, it’s generally advised that new graduates build confidence in permanent positions first.
3. How do I find veterinary locum roles UK?
Specialist recruitment agencies, industry job boards, and professional networks are good starting points.
4. Are locum roles common for veterinary nurses too?
Yes. Many practices rely on locum nurses, particularly in small animal clinics and referral centres.
5. Is locum work becoming more popular?
Absolutely. Surveys show growing demand, with flexibility cited as the top reason vets switch to locum work.