What to expect when you move
Moving to a new country as an international doctor can be both exciting and challenging. The United Kingdom offers a diverse cultural landscape, excellent healthcare system, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Here is an overview of what international doctors can expect when living in the UK, including insights into the country's culture and recommendations for regions to consider for a new home.
You will also be sent a welcome pack from Holt Doctors with helpful links and advice on everything you will need to set up home in the UK when we have secured you a position.
Regions to Live
With its vibrant cities, thriving market towns, and charming village locations, the UK has a diverse range of options to offer. Below are some popular regions for international doctors to consider:
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London: The bustling capital city with diverse job opportunities in world-renowned hospitals and research institutions. Enjoy a vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and rich cultural experiences. Excellent transport connections with Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport, and London City Airport providing international flights. Direct trains to Manchester take approximately 2 hours, and direct trains to Birmingham take around 1 hour 30 minutes.
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Manchester: A vibrant city in the north with a thriving healthcare sector and a lively music scene. Benefit from a lower cost of living compared to London while still enjoying great transport connections. Manchester Airport offers a wide range of international flights, and direct trains to London are available.
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Birmingham: Located in the West Midlands, Birmingham offers easy access to London and other major cities through direct trains. Birmingham Airport provides connections to major networks, and the journey to London takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by train.
Beyond the cities, the UK's rural countryside offers picturesque landscapes, tranquil living, and a strong sense of community. Many rural areas are well-connected with efficient transport links to cities, allowing for a balanced lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities when needed.
Accommodation
When relocating to the UK, some hospitals offer accommodation as part of a the NHS relocation package. Additionally, our dedicated team actively supports you in finding suitable rental properties through resources like Zoopla and Rightmove. We take the initiative to contact estate agents, arrange viewings, and inquire about availability on your behalf. Our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient place to call home during your time in the UK.
Culture in the UK
The UK is known for its rich history, multiculturalism, and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some key cultural aspects you should be aware of:
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Etiquette and politeness: The British are generally polite and value manners. It's common to say "please," "thank you," and "sorry" in everyday interactions.
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Punctuality: Being on time is essential in the UK, whether it's for work, social gatherings, or appointments.
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Respect for diversity: The UK is home to a diverse population, and people from various backgrounds and cultures coexist harmoniously. Embrace and respect this multicultural environment.
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Sense of humour: The British have a unique sense of humor that often involves sarcasm and wit. Don't be surprised if you encounter jokes and banter, especially in social settings.
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Weather: The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, with rainy days being quite common. Be prepared for all seasons and invest in some waterproof clothing!
Working as a doctor in the UK
Before your arrival, ensure that you have completed the necessary steps to practice medicine in the UK. This includes registering with the General Medical Council (GMC), which is the regulatory body for doctors. Additionally, you may need to pass language proficiency exams (e.g., IELTS) and specific medical qualification assessments.
Once you are settled in the UK, you can expect a well-organized healthcare system with opportunities for career advancement and specialization. The NHS provides free healthcare to residents, and working within it can be both rewarding and challenging.
Embracing the Experience
Moving to a new country is an adventure that comes with a mix of excitement and adaptation. Embrace the experience, make friends from different backgrounds, explore the local culture, and take advantage of the numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth that the UK has to offer.
Remember, everyone's experience is unique, so stay open-minded and enjoy the journey as an international doctor in the UK!
Our team will be here to support you and answer any questions that you may have – helping advise on accommodation, childcare and even where to set up bank accounts.
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