The NHS is the largest employer in Europe and contributes around 1.7 million staff to a total 4 million healthcare workforce in the UK. Recruitment agencies have always been strong in supplying candidates to the healthcare sector with the areas of medical, pharmaceutical and mental health all covered. Agencies will look to fill both permanent and temporary vacancies for their clients in roles such as general practitioner, pharmacist and therapist.
Government cuts and a tarnished reputation have reduced the number of opportunities open to enter the health industry, although those that do find it to be a personally rewarding sector. Salaries can be difficult to identify although the average is said to be around £35K. Senior medical staff such as managers and senior surgeons can expect to earn upwards of £70K, while dentistry assistants and supporting care roles can fail to earn in excess of £20K.
Employers in Leicestershire
In Leicestershire, the University Hospitals Leicester NHS Trust is the largest employer in the county with nearly 11K professionals based across its three hospitals. The average salary here is around £29K and the most common positions filled are administrative, clerical and in social care.
The most common route into the industry is via a degree and this is due to the specialist skills and knowledge expected of many of the roles. Degrees must be relevant to the specific vocation with a physiotherapist needing a physiotherapy degree, while a five year course is required of doctors. Roles such as support care are less reliant on degrees but diplomas and relevant work experience will be needed.