My experience joining the Guild: From application to first shift

Laura, a seasoned midwife with six years of experience, recently joined the Guild as an agency midwife in Scotland. We spoke to Laura about her experience of joining the Guild – from the recruitment process to her first shift. Here, Laura shares her insights to help give other nurses or midwives a better understanding of the process.

A search for new challenges

“I decided to look for agency work to challenge myself with working in different clinical areas and also to gain some extra income. I applied to join the Guild because it has a good reputation, excellent rates of pay, and is flexible to work around my substantive post.”

A seamless onboarding process

“The recruitment process was smooth and took about a month from start to finish to get my first shift booked in. The staff were very helpful with any questions and advising on outstanding tasks to complete the process. Everyone that I’ve dealt with at the Guild has been exceptionally lovely and helpful.”

A warm welcome on first shift

Contrary to her initial concerns, Laura discovered that hospital staff were welcoming and appreciative of agency workers.

“I had the misconception that other hospital staff may be rude or judgemental towards agency staff, but in fact people were very friendly and thankful for the help. Having extra staff on the floor helped the ward run smoothly and provides better patient care, which is what we all strive for. I think it would be useful if more health boards considered taking on agency midwives for this reason.”

A fulfilling experience

“As an agency midwife, I enjoy providing excellent patient care. I also like meeting new people and learning about the variations in protocols and practices across health boards, which makes you reflect on your own practice as an autonomous practitioner. There are different things expected of you working in a new area and I have the time to provide more direct patient care than I do in my substantive post which is really refreshing.”

A strong recommendation

“I would highly recommend joining the Guild for the attractive rates of pay, the flexibility of shifts, and getting a more varied experience of midwifery working at different units. I have already recommended the Guild to several colleagues who are in the process of joining.”

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