The NHS uses thousands of agency nurses on a daily basis, across all departments.

So whether you work as a general nurse, or specialise in one area, agency nurse jobs could be an option for you. Many NHS nurses even combine an NHS contract with part-time agency work. Being with an agency gives you more flexibility to decide when you work, plus the ability to command higher levels of pay.

If you’re interested in agency nurse jobs, take a look at our latest vacancies.

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FAQs about being a Agency Nurse

  • How long does it take to become an agency nurse?

    It all depends on the documents the candidate has to hand and how responsive they are to requests. The process can take only a few days if you have a disclosure and barring service (DBS) check on the update service, full immunisation records, valid right to work documents and are registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council and/or the Health & Care Professions Council.


  • How much do hospitals pay for agency nurses?

    Rates depend on location and what role the candidate takes. There are different rates for healthcare assistant nurses, registered nurses, mental health nurses, theatre nurses, scrubs nurses, operating department practitioner nurses and surgical first assistant nurses. 

    NHS hospitals pay between £20 and £26 per hour for an agency staff nurse. Private hospitals pay between £28 and £36 per hour for an agency staff nurse.


  • How much do agency nurses earn in the UK?

    Rates depend on location and what role the candidate takes. There are different rates for healthcare assistant nurses, registered nurses, mental health nurses, theatre nurses, scrubs nurses, operating department practitioner nurses and surgical first assistant nurses. 

    Agency nurses working within the NHS earn between £15 and £22 per hour. Agency nurses working in private placements earn between £22 and £28 per hour.


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