Moving to the UK to work in the NHS is an exciting step in your career, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the right place to live. This guide aims to simplify the process, offering practical tips and resources to help you find a house rent with ease.
When I moved to the UK, I was lucky enough to grab hospital accomodation for my stay. For the same, it is always recommended to contact the lead of your NHS hospital campus.
Do not rely purely on mailing them, call them and check the availability. I would recommend a minimum of 3 months before moving to the UK.
However, if you are one of the unluckiest ones to not able to get the hospital accomodation, your next choice is to find a house to rent as a NHS staff followed by getting the cheap essentials to survive.
Without making efforts, you are probably doomed. I have not met anyone yet who was not able to sort out the accomodation issue when coming to the UK, so chances are, you are going to resolve this issue as well.
Following are the steps to finding a house rent after making a successful application of your job in the NHS:
Finding House Rent for NHS Staff in the UK
Houses for rent are not cheap, specifically in the England. If you are near London, this is easily going to cost more than £1500. Hospital accomodations usually cost around £900-1500 depending on which one you are getting- either shared or family accomodation.
Some rentals include bills, some do not. Furthermore, make sure you are getting a furnished accomodation since no-one brings furniture from their home country. Some do provide discounts for NHS staff but this is uncommon.
For me, in Basildon, Essex, I had another option of Trafford House, a private rental which is pretty good too. They ask for 3 month pay slip and cost around £1100 excluding bills. They are fully furnished and are trust-worthy. The location is amazing too- near the Basildon railway station and it is a 20-minutes walk to the hospital if you do not want to take a cab (which roughly costs around £7).
Step 1: Understand Your Housing Options
When searching for accommodation in the UK, you’ll typically have these options:
- Hospital Accommodation: Many NHS trusts offer temporary accommodation for new staff. This is often the easiest option for newcomers as it is affordable and close to your workplace. Contact your accomodation officer immediately. You can ask your HR or you can directly call the hospital number and ask the switchboard to connect you with the lead. If you have the extension number, that works as well.
- Private Rentals: Renting privately gives you more flexibility in terms of location and type of property. Options range from shared houses to studio apartments.
- House Shares: Sharing a house with other professionals is a popular and cost-effective choice, especially in larger cities where rent can be high. Platforms like SpareRoom are great for finding house shares. These are cheapest for sure, however, be prepared for some drama and assume you have the skillset to tackle difficult roommates.
Step 2: Research the Area
Before committing to a property, take time to research the area. Here are some factors to consider:
- Commute: Use tools like Google Maps or Citymapper to calculate the distance and time to your hospital.
- Safety: Websites like Police.uk provide local crime statistics.
- Amenities: Look for supermarkets, pharmacies, and public transport nearby.
Step 3: Budget Wisely
Rent varies greatly depending on the location. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- In major cities like London, rent can be as high as £1000-£2000 per month for a one-bedroom flat. Smaller cities or towns can be much more affordable.
- Remember to factor in additional costs like council tax, utility bills, and internet.
- Always have a deposit ready, usually equivalent to 4-6 weeks’ rent.
Step 4: Start Your Search Early
Popular websites and apps for finding accommodation include:
If you are not able to get any from the ones listed above, there are short-stays that are pretty good and can help you settle down while you find one you need. For short-term stays, consider platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com while you search for something permanent. Notably, Ibis hotels are good too and are cheaper.
Step 5: Understand Rental Agreements
When renting privately, you’ll typically sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). Key points to review:
- Rent and Deposit: Confirm the amount and when payments are due.
- Length of Contract: Contracts are usually for 6-12 months.
- Responsibilities: Understand your obligations for maintenance and bills.
Read your contract thoroughly. Understand how much is the deposit. Note that mostly, we pay council tax, water bill, electricity bill and WiFi bill separately, which is probably going to add another 300-400 to your existing rent pay. Not cheap huh?
Step 6: Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Scams: Be cautious of landlords who ask for large payments upfront without showing you the property.
- Inspections: Always view the property in person or via video call if you’re overseas.
- References: Landlords may ask for references from your employer or previous landlord.
Most importantly, stay away from Facebook marketplace when looking for NHS staff house rent. They are the places full of scam, and you don’t want chaos in the beginning of your journey.
Bonus Tips for NHS Newcomers
- Join local Facebook groups or community forums for NHS staff. They often have listings and recommendations. Again, note that this does not mean looking at Facebook marketplace for house renting.
- Ask colleagues for advice. They can share insights on good neighborhoods and trustworthy letting agents.
- Familiarize yourself with tenant rights in the UK. Citizens Advice offers helpful information.
Winding Up
Finding accommodation in the UK as an NHS newcomer might seem daunting, but with the right approach and resources, you’ll find a place that feels like home in no time. Remember to start your search early, stay informed, and seek support when needed. Welcome to the UK, and good luck on this exciting journey!
