Temporary accommodation
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to secure long term accommodation, such as a rental property, from outside of the UK. Instead, booking short term, temporary accommodation for when you first arrive is best to begin with. We suggest looking into the following three temporary accommodation options:
Hospital accommodation
Hospital accommodation is great for it’s convenience, as it’s based either on the hospital grounds or very close by. You can also meet other hospital staff who may be able to help you familiarise yourself with the local area.
Availability varies from trust to trust and can sometimes be limited, particularly for family rooms. This option is therefore most suited to doctors who are either travelling to the UK alone or with a partner.
To book hospital accommodation, you can contact the hospitals accommodation team via the main hospital switchboard or speak with your recruiter at Doctors Relocate who will be happy to do this on your behalf.
Airbnb
Airbnb is an online platform that connects people who want to rent out their homes with people who are looking for accommodation in that location.
For short term stays, Airbnb offers a variety of accommodation options. You can either rent rooms alone or whole properties.
To view the properties available in the area which you’ll be staying, visit the Airbnb website and enter the location.
Hotels
Most hotels can offer single rooms, double rooms or family rooms, making them a convenient option for doctors looking for a short term stay upon arrival to the UK.
To compare hotel prices and find the best deal, we suggest that you use the comparison sites listed below:
Long term rental accommodation
Once you’re in the UK and have familiarised yourself with the local area, it’s much easier for you to confirm your long term accommodation arrangements. It’s also important to note that to secure a rental property in the UK, you’ll need to be here to sign the paperwork.
Renting a property is the most popular choice of long term accommodation for international doctors who have relocated to the UK. Here are some key things to consider when you’re searching for your rental property:
- Price: How much do you want to be paying out per month?
- Location: How far is the property from the hospital that you will be working in? Which schools are in the local catchment area?
- Length of rental contract: Is the length of contract available suitable for your needs?
- Break clause: Is there a break clause in your rental contract? It’s important to know the notice period that needs to be given in case of a change in circumstances
- Deposit: How much is the deposit for the property? The typical deposit is equivalent to 4-6 weeks rent, but should be no more than two months’ rent
- Pet policy: Do you have a pet? If so, this will probably have to be cleared and agreed with the landlord
The below websites are frequently used for rental property searches. Our team will also put you in contact with local lettings agents.
If you’re interested in working in the UK and would like to discuss the positions available in your specialty, and how we can assist you, please contact our team.
