PDA warns locum pharmacists of ‘wage theft’ risk

The Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) has advised locum pharmacists to check booking terms carefully before accepting shifts, warning of the risk of ‘wage theft’ and delayed payments.

According to the union, locum members have reported being owed significant unpaid fees for services provided, with some pharmacists claiming debts exceeding £20,000."

In some cases, locums have continued to work shifts for the same company despite outstanding payments, due to the agreed notice periods in booking terms.

The PDA said: “Naturally, those pharmacists may want to cancel their future shifts over concerns that the unpaid debt owed by the pharmacy business may increase.

“However, when the booking terms are examined, it seems some locums have agreed to work shifts with terms stating an 8-week notice period is required to cancel.”

This leaves the locum in the “unenviable position,” requiring them to continue working for a company that has failed to pay previous fees or face threats of legal action and ‘charges’ if they refuse to honour the bookings.

With an 8-week cancellation notice in place, locums may be forced to work almost two months of additional shifts, without certainty of whether they will ever receive their overdue payments, the PDA noted.

Therefore, locums are advised to thoroughly check the booking terms, particularly the dates of work, shift times, rate of pay and the notice period required.

“Locums should think very carefully before agreeing to booking terms that are incomplete, or which are not in their interests,” it said.

In cases where lengthy payment timeframes were communicated early on by the pharmacy along with specific conditions for how claims forms should be submitted, the PDA recommends that locums ensure they follow the required process.

If a locum has correctly completed and submitted their claims but has not been paid within the company's stipulated timeframe, they are advised to contact the pharmacy in writing.

“This is to let them know they consider the payment terms have been breached and to ask for an immediate response regarding the company’s intention to honour the contract,” the PDA stated.