How to find locum optometry work in the UK? 2025 - The Optom Coach

How to Find Locum Optometry Work in the UK

By The Optom Coach – supporting UK optometrists in building confident, successful locum careers. Visit www.theoptomcoach.com.

Why Finding Locum Work Matters

For optometrists in the UK, locum work offers flexibility, competitive pay, and exposure to diverse practice environments. But the challenge many new locums face is knowing where to find reliable and consistent shifts. In 2025, there are three main ways to secure locum optometry work: direct outreach, recruiter-style agencies, and digital shift marketplaces.

1. Contacting Local Opticians Directly

One of the simplest and most effective ways to find work is by approaching practices directly. Many independent and smaller optical chains prefer locums who reach out to them personally.

• How to do it:
• Send a professional CV and cover letter by email or post.
• Call local practices to introduce yourself and offer availability.
• Visit practices in person to build rapport with practice managers.

Benefits: You control the negotiation directly, build long-term relationships, and often secure better rates by cutting out the middleman.

Considerations: This method requires time, persistence, and organisation to keep track of availability across multiple practices.

2. Working with Recruiter-Style Agencies

Another option is to let a specialist recruitment agency like TeamLocum or Zest Optical to find locum shifts for you. These agencies work much like job recruiters—they match you with available roles and then present them to you by email or phone.

• How it works:
• You register with the agency, providing your documents, GOC number, and insurance.
• The agency informs you of shifts that fit your profile.
• You decide which offers to accept.

Benefits: Less admin for you, as agencies actively search for work on your behalf.

Considerations: Rates may be slightly lower due to agency fees, and you may have less control over which practices your profile is sent to.

3. Using Locum Optometry Marketplaces

The fastest-growing method in 2025 is using digital platforms and apps designed specifically for locum work. These online marketplaces act as a central hub where you can browse, apply, and book shifts instantly.

• Popular platforms include:
• Optowork
• TeamLocum
• Locumbell
• Eyeconnect
• Locatealocum
• How it works:
• Create a profile and upload required documents (CV, insurance, GOC registration).
• Browse live vacancies at major optical chains such as Specsavers, Boots, Vision Express, Asda, and independent practices.
• Book shifts directly through the app or website.

Benefits: Convenience, transparency of pay rates, and the ability to manage your locum diary in one place.

Considerations: Competition can be high for popular shifts, agencies can control the marketplace strongly without locum input and you may receive last-minute cancellations.

Which Option is Best For Finding Locum Optometry Work In The UK In 2025?

Most successful locum optometrists in the UK use a combination of all three approaches. But a majority of locum optometrists in the UK currentl use the 3rd method of using applications & websites to book their shifts. Direct outreach helps secure repeat work, agencies provide a safety net of opportunities, and marketplace apps offer convenience and flexibility. The right balance depends on your location, experience, and personal preferences.

Final Thoughts from The Optom Coach

Finding locum optometry work doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By combining direct outreach with agencies and locum platforms, you’ll build a consistent flow of shifts while keeping flexibility and control over your career.

At The Optom Coach, we specialise in helping optometrists in the UK transition smoothly from employed roles to locum work. From crafting the perfect CV to setting your rates and managing multiple work sources, we provide the tools and guidance you need to succeed.

👉 Download your free guide “Start Locuming: The Essential Setup Guide” at www.theoptomcoach.com and take the first step towards a thriving locum career.