Arriving from Abroad
This section of the handbook contains information tailored for individuals who are relocating from overseas to continue their career with NHS Golden Jubilee, however may include some details which are useful to anyone looking to set up their home in the area, including details on accommodation and religion / belief support services.
Accommodation
Demand for housing is currently very high so we strongly advise you to secure accommodation prior to your start date.
Long Term Accommodation – Rental
There are various properties available in the local area via several landlords (both private individuals and letting agencies) as well as through the local council, authorities and Scottish Government.
When you are just starting out, you might want to look at options for a short term tenancy, for example 3-6 months. This will allow you to get to know the area before entering into a long term agreement.
You can find more information and advice on renting properties at the following links:
- Scottish Government - www.mygov.scot/browse/housing-local- services/renting-property
- Shelter - scotland.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/guides/renting_ privately
Many landlords and letting agencies advertise online, however you may be able to find local properties advertised on notice boards.
Letting agencies
One advantage of using a letting agency, rather than a private landlord, is that they will have information on several different options and will act on your behalf when completing paperwork and administration, including rent, contracts and property repairs.
It is worth noting that going through a letting agent may be more expensive, however, as they charge administration fees.
Popular websites for renting properties can be found below:
- Right Move www.rightmove.co.uk
- Purple Bricks www.purplebricks.co.uk
- S1 Homes www.s1homes.com
- Zoopla www.zoopla.co.uk
- Your Move www.your-move.co.uk
- Gumtree www.gumtree.com/property-for-sale
- Spare Room www.spareroom.co.uk
Additionally, you can look into renting from your local housing association, you can find further information here:
www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/housing/housing-associations
Please note: these agencies are not endorsed by NHS Golden Jubilee, and other options are available. These are provided only for information, and NHS Golden Jubilee accepts no responsibility or liability for your use of any particular agency or website.
Costs and fees
Monthly rentals will vary depending on the size, condition and location of property. Whether they are furnished or unfurnished will also be a factor in this.
You will be asked to provide evidence of your earnings, proof of your current address and identification. Depending on the property you are applying to rent, you may be asked to pay the first month up front.
When renting a property, some landlords and letting agencies charge a holding fee to secure the property. The holding fee is not refundable if you don’t move into the property.
Once you have secured a place to stay, you will need to accept a tenancy agreement and pay a security deposit. This deposit acts as a guarantee against damage to the property and will be paid directly to the landlord or letting agency before you are allowed to move into the property.
After you have paid the deposit, you should receive a copy of the inventory list telling you what items are in the home.
It is important to check the condition of the items on the inventory list as you may be held responsible for any missing or damaged items when your tenancy agreement comes to an end. The money from your security deposit will be used to cover this.
If you feel you have been treated unfairly when renting a property, you can contact your local Citizen Advise Bureau for more advice at www.cas.org.uk.
Bills
As well as rent, there other costs to take into account when finding accommodation and you should check if these are included in your rental agreement:
- Utilities – check how much your gas and electricity bill will be and how this is paid i.e. every month, every quarter or using a pay as you go meter.
- Television - If you own a TV you will require a TV licence – this currently costs £159 per year or can be paid in monthly instalments. Website link: www.tvlicensing.co.uk/. You can access more than 70 channels free of charge, though you may need to buy a set top box if this is not included in your TV. If you want more specialist channels, like the latest movies or sport, this would be arranged through a provider like Sky or Virgin an extra monthly cost. Remember to ask if any discounts are available for NHS staff.
- Broadband – Check if the property has broadband already or if this will need to be installed. There will be a monthly charge for broadband – check if there is any discount for NHS staff.
To make sure you get the best deal for all of your bills it is worth looking at comparison websites such as www.uswitch.com.
Council Tax
Based on where you live, you’ll be expected to pay a contribution towards your local council. This pays for services like bin collection and recycling, water supply and sewerage treatment, and some health and wellbeing initiatives.
The council tax rate depends on exactly where you live – right down to your street. When looking at properties, look out for the “Council Tax Band”, and cross-reference the band with your local council’s website to see how much you’ll be expected to pay each month.
Council tax is collected for each property, and usually the occupier(s) are expected to pay. This means that if you’re buying or renting, you’ll be expected to pay. There are some deductions available – for full-time students, living alone or for low-income households.
For more tips on renting in Scotland, see the following link: www.s1homes.com/renting-property-in-scotland
Furniture and Equipment for your home
If you need furniture or equipment for your home there are websites which offer reasonably priced or even free goods! The items are usually second hand but are often in great condition so it’s worth checking out:
- www.gumtree.com
- www.freelywheely.com/clydebank/freecycle
- www.homefromhome.plus.com/ section--c
- Facebook Marketplace
Driving
In the UK, we drive on the left hand side of the road and follow a set of rules called the Highway Code. If you already hold a driving licence you may need to retest to drive in the UK.
More information can be found by clicking here.
If you intend to learn to drive in Scotland, you’ll require a provisional licence before you can book driving lessons.
