Working as a locum physiotherapist in a community setting for a three-month placement provides a great balance of flexibility and structure. It allows for variety while offering enough time to build relationships with patients and colleagues. We recently caught up with Alex, an experienced Aussie locum physiotherapist working through our agency, to give a straightforward take on what a typical day looks like in this role.

7:00 AM – How do you start your day?
Alex: “First thing in the morning, I check my schedule to confirm my patient visits. Things can shift around last minute, so it’s always good to double-check. Then, it’s a quick breakfast, a strong coffee, and out the door.”

8:00 AM – What’s the commute like?
Alex: “Since moving to the UK, I’ve quickly realised that driving in the city isn’t for me—too many roundabouts, bus lanes, and cars squeezing past on small roads! So, I stick to the trains. It’s mostly reliable, and it gives me a chance to wake up properly, catch up on messages, or just people-watch (there are some characters on the morning commute, that’s for sure!).”

8:30 AM – What do your first few patient visits involve?
Alex: “Morning visits usually focus on mobility work and rehab. Patients vary—some are recovering from surgery, others are managing chronic conditions. My job is to assess progress, adjust exercises, and keep them motivated. Some patients are keen, others need a nudge, but that’s all part of it.”

10:30 AM – How do you manage different patient needs?
Alex: “Flexibility is key. One patient might need hands-on therapy, another just reassurance that they’re on track. I also adapt exercises to fit their home setup—no fancy gym equipment here, so sometimes a tin of beans makes a good weight!”

12:00 PM – What do you do for lunch?
Alex: “Depends on the day. If I’m organised, I bring something from home. If not, it’s a quick stop at a local café or supermarket meal deal. Working in the same area for a while means I get to know the good food spots, which is a bonus.”

1:00 PM – How does the afternoon compare to the morning?
Alex: “Afternoons can be a mix of follow-ups and new assessments. Home visits mean seeing how patients manage in their own space, which helps me tailor their rehab. Some are making great progress, others have hit a wall, so it’s about keeping them engaged without pushing too hard.”

3:00 PM – How do you work with other professionals?
Alex: “I liaise with nurses, OTs, and carers to make sure we’re all aligned on patient care. Good communication is key—there’s no point in me recommending something if it clashes with what another professional is advising.”

5:00 PM – How do you wrap up the day?
Alex: “I update patient records, do a quick handover if needed, and plan for tomorrow. Then it’s back on the train home. By this point, I’m usually knackered, but at least I don’t have to deal with traffic. Some days, I feel like I’ve made a real difference; others, I just need to put my feet up and switch off.”

What’s the best part of being a locum in community care?
Alex: “The variety, the autonomy, and the chance to see patient progress over time. No two days are the same, and I get to work with great people. Plus, when this placement’s up, I can take a break or try something new. Best of both worlds.”

Are you considering a career in locum physiotherapy? Get in touch with our team to explore exciting opportunities and take control of your career today!