Useful Information

Destination: UK

Healthcare

The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK's health provider and provides free treatment for the British population. The British Government has signed reciprocal health care agreements with the governments of all countries within the European Union, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa which means people from these countries can also access NHS services as long as they have an NI number.

Upon arrival you need to register with a local General Practitioner (GP). Once registered, you will be entitled to free or subsidised medical advice and treatment. To find out where your nearest GP is located, contact your Local Health Authority on 0845 46 47 or visit the NHS website.

Dentist

If you require a dentist whilst working in the UK you will need to pay for treatment, although there are some practices which offer a discounted NHS service. You do not need to register with a dentist until you need dental care. To find out where your nearest dentist is located contact the NHS website.

Public Transport

In London, the most efficient way to travel from one place to the next is by using the Underground (also called the Tube) or bus. You can purchase daily, weekly, monthly or yearly Travelcards that allow you to travel by bus, tube and National Rail (overland trains) in zones 1-6 (or part thereof). A monthly zone 1-6 Travelcard - which will take you anywhere in London - costs around £150.

London has introduced the Oyster card — an electronic card which you touch in and out to get through ticket barriers. It can be used on the Underground, buses and at some National Rails stations and either as pay as you go or in place of a paper Travelcard. Depending on where you are living in London we recommend you get one as soon as you arrive (a £3 deposit which is refundable is required). The intention is to implement this system across the whole of the London transport network and cheaper fares are offered to encourage their use.

For further information about getting around London, including suggested routes and general transport information, visit www.tfl.gov.uk.

Car

If you intend to drive in the UK you will need your own national driving licence or an International Driving Licence (applied for in your home country) which will allow you to drive for up to 12 months in the UK and Europe.

TV license

You are required by law to buy a license to use a television or any other device to receive/record TV programmes (e.g. a VCR, set-top box, DVD recorder or PC with a broadcast card). Visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk for full details.

Useful Phone Numbers

England & Wales Public Holidays 2008 – 2009