Working with Locums First for your 2026 career search
Locums First is a UK-based staffing agency specializing in connecting primary care clinicians with locum and permanent roles across the healthcare, software, and business services sectors. They serve as a bridge between skilled professionals and employers, providing a streamlined matching service to help you secure your next career move efficiently.
Who pays Locums First
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Locums First earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
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Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
What sectors and roles does Locums First specialize in?
Locums First focuses on the intersection of healthcare, software, and business services. They primarily place primary care clinicians into both short-term locum assignments and long-term permanent positions. By maintaining a niche focus, they ensure that their consultants understand the specific regulatory and technical requirements of these sectors.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work for a candidate?
The process begins with a registration and document verification phase to ensure you meet all compliance standards for GBR healthcare roles. Once your profile is vetted, a consultant matches your skills against current vacancies in their network. If there is a potential fit, they will discuss the role with you before submitting your details to the hiring organization.
What should I expect once I engage with the agency?
Expect a professional, transparent communication cadence focused on roles that align with your stated preferences. The agency acts as your representative, meaning they handle the initial negotiations and scheduling on your behalf. There is no cost to you as a candidate, as the agency fee is covered by the hiring organization.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of Locums First?
To stand out, ensure your CV highlights your specific clinical certifications and any relevant experience in software or business service environments. Register directly through their portal and follow up with a brief email to a consultant if you have specialized skills that are in high demand. Keeping your availability status updated is the most effective way to remain visible for new locum opportunities.
Is Locums First the right fit for my job search?
Locums First is an ideal partner if you are a primary care clinician seeking flexibility or a permanent transition within the UK healthcare landscape. However, if you are looking for roles outside of their core sectors or require a generalist recruitment approach, you may find their specialized focus too narrow. They are best suited for candidates who value industry-specific expertise over broad-market reach.
How to work with Locums First: candidate playbook
- Keep your clinical certifications and compliance documents updated in the portal.
- Clearly define your geographic availability for locum shifts to save time.
- Highlight specific software or business service experience on your CV.
- Respond to consultant inquiries within 24 hours to secure fast-moving roles.
- Ask your consultant for feedback after every interview to improve your presentation.
Frequently asked questions
Should I register with multiple agencies at the same time?
It is common practice for locum clinicians to register with multiple agencies to maximize their exposure to available shifts. Just ensure you keep your availability calendar updated across all platforms to avoid double bookings.
What happens to my data after I submit my CV?
Your data is stored in accordance with UK data protection regulations and is only shared with potential employers after you have given explicit consent for a specific role. You retain the right to request the deletion of your profile at any time.
Can I apply directly to a role if I am already registered with the agency?
If you have already been submitted for a role by Locums First, you should not apply directly to the same employer for that position. Doing so can cause administrative conflicts and may disqualify you from the recruitment process.
How should I handle a period of silence after an interview?
If you have not heard back within the timeframe discussed, send a polite follow-up email to your consultant. Agencies often wait for feedback from the client, and a brief check-in helps keep your application at the top of their priority list.
Applying through Locums First?
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General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.