Leave NHS for something new

[Randomgirl12]

I have been working for the NHS for nearly 15 years. I left the hospital and rotated to community 2 years ago which is much better for me work- childcare wise (shorter days) I do feel the usual pressures of work demand, staff morale is low and generally everybody feels fed up.

I have a big interest in massage, aromatherapy, and scalp/skincare, and have managed to gain a diploma/some courses under my belt. I started running a little business on the side (just renting a beauty room once a week) I have had over 20 clients since starting and really enjoy it. Im
planning to expand the types of treatment and have a lot of interest. Long story short, I have been offered a completely new role and beauty room which would be mine to run my business. They have a great team with lots of staff benefits and flexible working hours. I would act self employed but still be part of their team so no contract or pension.

I feel like the NHS is all I know. Do I take a leap of faith or stay safe? I’m able to work bank shifts if this all goes out the window. I generally have no idea what to do!

Take it and get a private pension. Lots of NHS work is private now anyway.

Could you drop your hours in your NHS post, or have a career break to establish your new business? That would mitigate the risk a bit.

I'd go for it. Sign up to do bank shifts so you have another steady source of income while you build up your client base.
The NHS is so short staffed you'll be able to return if the business doesn't work out

Unfortunately that’s not an option they already want us to increase our hours! I haven’t thought about a career break but I’ll look into it

You won't know unless you give it a go.

However, please consider that the NHS has a very generous pension, holiday and sickness benefits that you won't get with self employment. That's fine if you are earning £££ but piecemeal holistic therapy? Check your numbers before committing.....

I would be inclined to stay part time in the NHS personally.