Here we include a full summary about how to register with an agency including the compliance journey, different methods of payment and your first shift!
Agency nursing offers a flexible and rewarding career path for healthcare professionals. As an agency nurse, you have the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, gain valuable experience, and enjoy a more flexible schedule. In this blog, we will explore the process of becoming an agency nurse, including the compliance process, getting paid, choosing Express Nursing as your agency, and preparing for your first shift.
a. Research and choose a reputable agency: Look for agencies with a good reputation, a wide network of clients, and positive feedback from other nurses.
b. Application and documentation: Fill out the agency's application form, provide necessary documentation such as your nursing degree and NMC pin, and additional certifications, immunisation records, and background checks.
c. Skills assessment: Depending on the agency, you may need to undergo a skills assessment to ensure your competency and match you with suitable assignments. Here at Express Nursing we work a Band 8 nurse to perform your interview, guide you through appraisal and revalidation and support your journey.
d. Orientation and training: Attend agency-specific training sessions including Basic Life Support and Mandatory Training Modules.
a. Rate negotiation: Discuss your desired pay rate with the agency. Factors such as experience, specialty, and location can influence the rate.
b. Payment structure: Understand the payment structure offered by the agency. Most nursing agencies pay hourly and put you in touch with a payment vehicle who can support you through the options of choosing to be paid via PAYE, Limited Company or Umbrella Company.
c. Timesheets and invoicing: Complete accurate timesheets for each shift worked and submit them to the agency promptly. Failure to submit your timesheet, or include booking reference numbers provided to you can cause a delay in payment.
a. PAYE: Also known as “pay as you earn”, this is when the necessary deductions such as income tax and national insurance are taken from your earnings by your employer before you get paid for your agency nurse job.
b. Limited Company: Getting paid through a Limited Company (also known as a PSC or personal service company) is sometimes considered the most tax efficient way to get paid as an agency nurse. You are responsible for your own deductions and tax compliance, but you may be eligible for certain tax reliefs.
c. Umbrella Company: More and more nursing agencies are turning to paying agency nurses through umbrella companies, as they handle the administrative duties around payment. Your chosen agency pays the umbrella company, your gross hourly rate, and they then processes the earnings. Your overall take home pay will likely be more or less the same as any other method, although you may have to pay a small fee for their services. You won’t have to do any administration or paperwork yourself, and may be entitled to some benefits such as sickness and holiday pay.
a. Reputation and reliability: Express Nursing has established itself as a trusted agency, known for its excellent reputation and reliability in the healthcare staffing industry.
b. Client network: Express Nursing works with a wide range of healthcare organisations, providing ample opportunities for nurses to find assignments that match their skills and preferences.
c. Support and communication: Express Nursing offers ongoing support to its nurses, ensuring that you have someone to reach out to with any concerns or questions. We value clear and prompt communication to maintain a positive working relationship.
a. Preparation: Familiarise yourself with the settings policies and procedures. You will be required to take with you essential supplies such as uniform and identification badge.
b. Time management: Plan to arrive early for your shift, allowing ample time for orientation, introductions, and familiarising yourself with the facility.
c. Communication and teamwork: Be proactive in introducing yourself to the staff, ask questions when needed, and establish effective communication with the nursing team.
d. Flexibility and adaptability: As an agency nurse, you may encounter different working environments and routines. Be adaptable and flexible, ready to embrace new challenges and adapt to different settings.
Becoming an agency nurse opens up a world of opportunities, flexibility, and personal growth within the nursing profession. By following the compliance process, understanding the payment structure, choosing a reputable agency like Express Nursing, and adequately preparing for your first shift, you can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding agency nursing career. Remember to stay proactive, maintain excellent communication, and embrace new experiences as you embark on this exciting journey. Good luck!
