The SwiftLocum mobile application was created by doctors who are aware of the burden of rota gaps and locum agency costs. The app allows NHS trusts to alert all registered doctors of new vacancies directly and instantly, who can then apply for them at the touch of a button.

Based at Innovation Birmingham Campus’ iCentrum building, the Serendip Smart City Incubator programme provides market access and expertise for digital businesses through close partnerships with major organisations accelerating the early growth of new business, with the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network, the partner in the Digital Health Quarter.

SwiftLocum was selected after an application process, and has been given access to six months’ free co-working space in the heart of Birmingham, with 1-2-1 business mentoring. By co-locating promising businesses with large, existing partners, the programme provides a platform to refine products and services while maintaining a commercial focus.

Samandip Dhesi, Director at SwiftLocum (cover pic-r), said: “As doctors, we are frustrated by the near-impossible task of booking extra NHS shifts. The methods used by NHS employers to connect with and recruit doctors are not fit for purpose, resulting in the NHS spending £3 billion on agency staff annually. This is why we developed SwiftLocum.

“Before receiving a place at Serendip, our company was just an idea, and we had no resources to get it off the ground. Serendip has provided us with a space to grow and thrive amongst Birmingham’s most exciting start-ups. Within four months, we have gone from idea to pilot at what will be the largest NHS trust in the UK. With the support of the WMAHSN and Innovation Birmingham, we hope to continue our rapid growth and look forward to pitching our business at the Investment Showcase in November.”

The company will have access to a database of market influencers, clients and collaborators, as well as admission to over 140 specific start-up and innovation-focused events.