The BMA Model locum practice agreement has been developed jointly by GPC and the sessional GP subcommittee with the help of BMA Law.

This has been developed with the aim of benchmarking good practice for locums and practices, both in terms of having written T&Cs in place, which only 20% of engagements currently do. It is intended to minimise common disputes between locums and practices and clearly outline the type of work that will be undertaken by a locum when working at a practice.​ It covers practice and locum obligations, as well as practical issues such as invoicing. 

It also protects both parties against locums being categorised as an employee or worker by HMRC for tax purposes, or by an employment tribunal for the purposes of statutory employment protection, as well as ensuring that there are appropriate arrangements in place for compliance with GDPR.

This is a package consisting of terms and conditions (with explanatory notes) and a work schedule which together form a legal contract that can be used by locum GPs and GP practices for locum engagements.  BMA members who use the locum practice agreement can check any terms and conditions they are offered with the BMA contract checking service to ensure they align with the BMA model terms and conditions. Members can also contact the BMA to get advice and support with resolving any disputes if they occur.

Background information and FAQs are available on the website, as well as the following downloads: