The Staff Bank exists to coordinate and develop a flexible workforce that supports safe, high-quality patient care across NHS Lothian & NHS Borders
The NHS Lothian Staff Bank provides a flexible workforce that supports safe, effective patient care across all services.
By supplying skilled staff when and where they are needed most, we help maintain continuity of care, respond to changes in demand, and support our frontline teams to deliver the best possible outcomes for patients.
What We Do
We provide supplementary staffing across all areas of NHS Lothian and Borders, ensuring services remain safe, responsive, and well-supported.
Our Staff Bank includes a wide range of roles:
- Registered Nurses and Midwives
- Healthcare Support Workers and Care Assistants
- Allied Health Professionals
- Medical Locums
- Administrative and Clerical Staff
- Ancillary and Support Services Staff
Why NHS Lothian & Borders Staff Bank?
Benefits include:
- Flexibility to choose when and where you work
- Opportunities to gain experience across different services and settings
- The ability to support patient care while maintaining work-life balance
- Additional income alongside your current role or studies
- Access to training and development opportunities
Whether you are an experienced professional, a current NHS employee, or looking to build your career, the Staff Bank offers a valuable way to contribute and develop.
How We Support You
The Staff Bank manages the full employment journey, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience for all workers.
Our services include:
- Recruitment and onboarding
- Shift coordination and booking
- Payroll and payments
- Learning and development
These functions are delivered by our dedicated recruitment, payroll, and administrative teams, available Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Booking Shifts
Our Bookings Team is available seven days a week, 8:00am to 8:00pm, providing responsive support to match staff with shifts across NHS Lothian services.
Internal Applicants
If you currently hold a substantive post in NHS Lothian or Borders, you are eligible to apply for the same position on the Staff Bank.
This is a much quicker process than applying externally as there is not a requirement to be interviewed.
Please discuss with your line manager if you are interested in joining the Staff Bank.
You can find all internal adverts here.
External Applicants
If you do not currently hold a substantive post in NHS Lothian or Borders please check the SHOW website to see if we are currently recruiting.
Online application forms, and full details of how to apply can be found here.
Tip – Make sure ‘Staff Bank’ is in the title of the job role.
Application forms can be downloaded from the SHOW website or telephone the Staff Bank Recruitment Office on 0131 536 2020.
Loop
Loop is an app and online system used by NHS Lothian & Borders staff to manage their work and stay connected.
It allows you to:
- View your shifts (including Staff Bank shifts) in one place
- Book available bank shifts quickly and easily
- Request annual leave and manage your availability
- See who you’re working with
- Receive updates and communicate with colleagues securely
Loop replaces older systems like Employee Online, bringing everything together into one easy-to-use platform.
You can access Loop on your phone, tablet, or computer—so you can manage your work life anytime, anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bank work?
Single or grouped shifts are available for clinical and non-clinical staff across NHS Lothian & Borders. Availability of work is not guaranteed, nor are staff obliged to accept any work offered.
How do I apply join the Bank?
We advertise our positions on the NHS Scotland recruitment website.
Why do I need to join the Bank?
Most supplementary staffing in NHS Lothian & Borders is coordinated through the Staff Bank.
Who can join the Bank?
Anyone can apply. However applicants must be able to evidence eligibility to work in the UK, and comply with all NHS Lothian’s recruitment checks.
Can I join the Bank if I have another post in NHS Lothian or Borders?
Yes, many staff undertake additional work through NHS Lothian & Borders Staff Bank. However, your Bank contract will remain separate from any other one which you hold.
Do I need additional Occupational Health Service (OHS) clearance if I already have a post within NHS Lothian or Borders?
Yes, this may be required.
I worked through the Bank a while ago. Am I still registered to work?
Please check your details online, or contact your relevant staff group.
How long does the application process take?
This will depend on obtaining full and correct information from you. We aim to turn around applications within four weeks from obtaining a fully completed application pack.
When can I start work through the Bank?
We will write to tell you when your application is complete and that you can accept work.
Contact the Staff Bank
NHS Lothian Staff Bank
Comely Bank Centre
13 Crewe Road South
Edinburgh
EH4 2LD
Recruitment Telephone number: 0131 536 1616, option 1.
Recruitment Email: loth.staffbankrecruitment@nhs.scot
