Would you go for a fixed term NHS job from a permanent NHS job?

[Matildahaspowers]

Hi,

I have an interview later on this week, for the job I do (trained professional), at a hospital I used to work for. Problem is, it is fixed term (12-18 months). I really need to leave where I am now (complicated) due to travel/family issues/and the fact I have never settled.

Am I risking too much 'throwing away' a permanent contract (after almost 20 years continuous service)? There are no guarantees of being offered a permanent post at the new job and I am conscious of cutbacks in the NHS (although manager thinks it will be fine). I am looking at re-training anyway though if it came to nothing.

[Spindelina]

If you need to leave you need to leave - this job gives you a chance to do so. If you get it, you aren't prevented for applying for other (permanent) jobs.

Are you super-specialist (so there are only a handful of people locally who do your job)? Or are there dozens?