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THE GUIDE.
Working and living in the UK.

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Table of Contents
Introduction ..........................................................................................3 Why live in the UK? ...............................................................................4 Who we are ...........................................................................................5 There is life beyond London! ................................................................6 Visas ......................................................................................................7 Getting a job ..........................................................................................9 Interview advice ....................................................................................11 Top 10 Interview Questions and How to Answer Them ........................13 Other Common Interview Questions to Consider .................................15 Working in the UK .................................................................................16 General Information .............................................................................19 Cost of Living ........................................................................................21 Accommodation ....................................................................................22 Average Cost of Accommodation in London ........................................23 Transport ..............................................................................................25 Useful Websites and Contacts .............................................................26 Contact us .............................................................................................30

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Introduction
The key to any successful trip is preparation and a trip to the UK is no exception. Whether you are a first time traveler or a seasoned jet-setter, packing up your life and heading overseas can be a daunting experience so were here to help. This guide is filled with useful information designed to help you prepare for your move and settle in more easily. Youll find tips on what to do before you leave, including what to do about your visa and a departure checklist to help ensure you dont forget anything vital. There is also detailed information on how to find a job in the UK, including CV and interview advice along with general information such as finding accommodation, setting up a bank account and the cost of living. We hope this guide helps make your transition to the UK as simple and enjoyable as possible.

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Why Live in the UK?


The UK is an island, fiercely independent, yet entirely European in its depth of history and determination to maintain its culture. Whether you decide to live in London itself, or in regional areas like Edinburgh or Cardiff, each part of the UK boasts its own unique history and character. The UK has embraced globalisation like the rest of the West, but without losing any of its heritage or charm. Wander around any of the major cities and before long youll stumble across an ancient churchyard, or a centuries-old inn or a quaint row of terrace houses leading to the seashore. However, important as its heritage is, there is much more to the UK than the Olde Worlde image depicted in tourist brochures. It is a dynamic and ambitious country with its major cities serviced by an excellent, modern day infrastructure. Offering a refreshing contrast to Englands green and pleasant land is the UKs chic contemporary lifestyle boasting the latest fashions, fine dining, clubbing, entertainment and truly amazing shopping.

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Who We Are
Established in 1976, Michael Page International has grown to become one of the worlds market leaders across a variety of industry sectors. We have built a cast-iron reputation on our consultative approach. Our understanding of the markets, their businesses and the individuals they employ, enables us to facilitate the perfect match between all parties. Our clients range from global multinationals to SMEs, who rely on us to source permanent, contract, temporary and interim talent in the following areas: Accounting, Tax & Treasury Consultancy, Strategy & Change Engineering & Manufacturing Financial Services & Banking Human Resources Legal Marketing Procurement & Supply Chain Property & Construction Sales Technology The Michael Page International website also offers a comprehensive yet simple search engine for both temporary and permanent job opportunities. You can browse the site for up to date news, client information, interview advice, CV examples and much more. We have a dedicated Global Opportunities team working with our network of 166 offices across the globe. To find out more about our global coverage and information on living and working in any of these countries, please visit our international website at www.michaelpageinternational.com

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There is life beyond London!


One of the great misconceptions about working in the UK is that all the exciting job opportunities can only be found in London. In fact, Michael Page Internationals regional network spans from Scotland to Southampton and there is a constant demand for overseas professionals in interesting locations outside the capital. We encourage candidates to broaden their horizons and take advantage of the many excellent opportunities in some of the UKs most exciting and beautiful regional areas, including: Edinburgh the second largest financial hub in the UK after London Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds - with sectors such as Financial Services, Manufacturing, FMCG and Media Reading the UKs centre for technology companies and their advisory firms Southampton, Bristol and Portsmouth and other regional centres now headquarters for numerous international firms, including leading Financial Services & Technology companies Whether its Manchesters fabulous nightlife, Birminghams renowned cultural scene or the spectacular parklands and waterside restaurants of Cardiff, each of the UKs major cities offers a uniquely different experience and lifestyle. So before committing yourself to London simply because its the UKs best known city, be sure to consider the wealth of opportunities that exist right throughout this wonderful country.

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VISAS
What Visa will be applicable? In order to work in the UK you must hold either a British/EU passport or a relevant working visa. Visas can be granted on the basis of your parentage/marriage or you can apply for a specific working visa. Listed below are the main types of visas which enable you to work in the UK. Visas can be complicated and there are many categories not listed in this booklet. For more in depth information on UK visas, please visit the following UK government website www.workingintheuk.gov.uk Abode (Right of) Granted to a Commonwealth citizen with a British born mother Permanent residency allows you to live in the UK without restrictions indefinitely De Facto/Unmarried Partners Visa Granted to those who cannot marry their British partners under UK law (unless it is because of a blood relationship or age) Primarily aimed at same-sex couples or if one party is still legally married Both have been living together as if they are married for at least two years and both plan to live together permanently Two year visa, work unrestricted, permanent residency at the end of two years Dependants Visa/Settlement Visa/Spousal Dependant visas are granted to the spouses of those holding a UK Visa such as a UK work permit, Ancestry or Right of Abode. A Dependants Visa thus mirrors the employment rights granted to the UK visa holder they are dependant on Marrying a British citizen will qualify the individuals husband or wife for a two year spousal visa No working restrictions, eligible for permanent residency at the expiration of two years Ancestry Visa Granted to Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK A five year renewable visa with no work restrictions After five years, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency EEA Family Permit Granted to those who are the dependants of EEA nationals living and working in the UK No restrictions on taking employment Cont.

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Tier 1 (Previously Highly Skilled Migrants Visa) Based on a points system aimed at attracting skilled workers to the UK Points are awarded for attributes, for which you need to score a minimum of 75 points. These attributes compromise of age, qualifications, previous earnings and UK experience. Three year visa initially, can be renewed for a further two years. Permanent residency after five years No restriction on the type of employment, as long as it is within their specialised field Tier 2 Company Sponsorship (Also known as a Work Permit) If a candidate does not have recourse to a UK Visa, a company can sponsor them to stay in the UK and work for that company Sponsorship in the UK is rare, as the sponsoring company must provide evidence that they cannot recruit from within the whole of the European Union. The majority of our clients will not consider sponsorship Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme (Previously Working Holiday Maker) Available to Commonwealth citizens aged between 18-30 years inclusive A two year visa, which allows you to work for two full years Only one Tier 5 Visa permitted per person in their lifetime

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Getting a Job
What should a UK CV look like? A professional looking CV that clearly details your skills and experience will play a major part in whether or not you make it through to the interview stage. A typical UK CV is between 2-3 pages in length. Ensure that you spell check and also proof read your CV thoroughly before submitting it as just one small typing error has the potential to ruin your application Formatting Use a commonly used program such as Word Ensure there is plenty of white space to make it easier for the reader to scan each page Use a standard font size that is easy to read on screen such as Arial 10 point Keep it simple. The more graphics or design elements you incorporate into your CV, the more chance the recipient will have trouble in accessing or printing it Use bullet points when listing responsibilities and achievements Basic Structure Ideally, your CV will include the following sections in the following order: 1. Personal details be sure to include your nationality and visa status 2. Education and qualifications list highest qualification first 3. Employment history list most recent experience first 4. Hobbies and interests 5. Referees

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Content Tips A well prepared CV is an excellent marketing tool. Make sure it is well written, clear and easy to understand When listing your employment history start with your most recent or current role and always include employer names, the positions you held and the primary responsibilities in each role. Ensure you mention important facts such as Managed a team of 10 people or Increased profit for the business area by 25% between Q1, 2007 and Q4, 2007 If using a personal email address in your details section ensure that it is of a professional nature When listing employment dates include months as well as years. eg. March 2003 September 2008 Do not leave unexplained gaps in your work experience history. For instance if you have taken time out to go travelling for six months then include it on your CV Provide a brief description of company, turnover, number of employees and team size Your CV should be an accurate reflection of your skills and experience. Our advice is to only apply for jobs if you have the relevant skills Include contact details of at least two referees. At least one of these should be a former employer

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Interview Advice
Step 1 Do your research Researching a potential employers company and the related industry shows initiative, enthusiasm and a keen interest in the role. The fastest way to conduct research on a company is online, starting with the company website. You can expand your search by using a search engine to help source the following information: The companys core products and services How the company is perceived in the marketplace The companys current financial position It is also beneficial to research the companys competitors and get a better understanding of the industry as a whole. A helpful exercise is to think like one of the companys customers and identify potential improvements and strategies. Step 2 Preparation Always prepare thoroughly so you can talk more comfortably about yourself, your experience and how it relates to the role, for example: Be familiar with your CV and prepare to answer questions from it. Similarly, ensure you read each job description thoroughly and if possible, highlight the ways in which your experience can benefit your potential employer Prepare in advance for common interview questions. (Refer to our interview questions section for some practical examples) Conduct practice interviews with friends until you can comfortably answer each question without hesitation Prepare questions that you can ask the employer. (Refer to our interview questions section for some practical examples) Be certain where the interview will be held, obtain clear directions and always confirm the time

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Step 3 The interview Make sure your mobile phone is switched off Relax and have confidence in your research and preparation Greet your interviewer standing, with a firm handshake and a smile - good body language is vital Wait to sit until the interviewer does or until they offer you a chair Sit up straight with both feet on the floor Speak clearly and confidently Try and maintain a comfortable level of eye contact throughout Dont rush to fill in any silences. Think before you speak Use practical examples to illustrate your skills and show how they suit the role and the company Avoid one word answers expand wherever possible Show enthusiasm for the role Close the interview with a handshake, a genuine thank you for a positive last impression Step 4 After the interview Write down a short summary of the interview while it is still fresh in your mind. Note the areas in which you feel you went well, as well as any questions you found difficult to answer. This will help you to prepare for a possible second interview, or with future interviews for other roles Call your Michael Page consultant and provide feedback. Your consultant needs to know your views on the interview and the role before contacting the employer on your behalf

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Top 10 Interview Questions and How to Answer Them


There are some common interview questions that you should prepare answers for beforehand. The key thing to remember when responding to interview questions is to keep your answers brief and to the point. If you are faced with a difficult question, stay calm and take a moment to think before you answer. Dont get defensive. Remember, the responses below are only suggestions. Try to personalise your answers as much as possible. Q: Tell me about yourself. A: Identify some of your main attributes and memorise them. Describe your qualifications, career history and range of skills, emphasising those skills relevant to the job on offer. Q: What have your achievements been to date? A: Select an achievement that is work-related and fairly recent. Identify the skills you used in the achievement and quantify the benefit it had to the company. For example, my greatest achievement has been to design and implement a new sales ledger system, bringing it in ahead of time and improving our debtors position significantly, saving the company $50,000 a month in interest. Q: Are you happy with your career to date? A: This question is really about your self-esteem, confidence and career aspirations. The answer must be yes, followed by a brief explanation as to what it is about your career so far thats made you happy. If you have hit a career plateau, or you feel you are moving too slowly, then you must qualify your answer. Q: What is the most difficult situation you have had to face and how did you tackle it? A: The purpose of this question is to find out what your definition of difficult is and whether you can show a logical approach to problem solving. In order to show yourself in a positive light, select a difficult work situation which was not caused by you and which can be quickly explained in a few sentences. Explain how you identified the problem, what the options were, why you selected the one you did and what the outcome was. Always end on a positive note. Cont.

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Q: What do you like about your present job? A: This is a straightforward question. All you have to do is make sure that your likes correspond to the skills required for the job on offer. Be enthusiastic; describe your job as interesting and diverse but do not overdo it after all, you are looking to leave. Q: What do you dislike about your present job? A: Be cautious with this answer. Do not be too specific as you may draw attention to weaknesses that will leave you open to further problems. One approach is to choose a characteristic of your present company, such as its size or slow decision-making processes etc. Give your answer with the air of someone who takes problems and frustrations in your stride as part of the job. Q: What are your strengths? A: This is one question that you know you are going to get so there is no excuse for being unprepared. Concentrate on discussing your main strengths. List three or four proficiencies e.g. your ability to learn quickly, determination to succeed, positive attitude, your ability to relate to people and achieve a common goal. You may be asked to give examples of the above so have a few at the ready. Q: What is your greatest weakness? A: Do not say you have none this will lead to further problems. You have two options one is to nominate a weakness such as a lack of experience (not ability) on your part in an area that is not vital for the job. The second option is to describe a personal or professional weakness that could also be considered to be a strength and the steps you have taken to modify it. An example would be: I know my team think Im too demanding at times I tend to drive them pretty hard but Im getting much better at using the carrot and not the stick. Q: Why do you want to leave your current employer? A: State how you are looking for a new challenge, more responsibility, experience and a change of environment. Do not be negative in your reasons for leaving. It is rarely appropriate to express salary as your primary motivator. Q: Why have you applied for this particular job? A: The employer is looking for evidence that the job suits you, fits in with your general aptitudes, coincides with your long-term goals and involves doing things you enjoy. Make sure you have a good understanding of the role and the organisation and describe the attributes of the organisation that interest you most.

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Other Common Interview Questions to Consider:


How does your current job fit into your department and company? What do you enjoy about this industry? Give an example of when you have worked under pressure. What kinds of people do you like working with? Give me an example of when your work was criticised. Give me an example of when you have felt anger at work. How did you cope and did you still perform a good job? What kind of people do you find it difficult to work with? Give me an example of when you have had to face a conflict of interest at work. Tell me about the last time you disagreed with your boss. Give me an example of when you havent got on with others. Do you prefer to work alone or in a group? Why? This organisation is very different to your current employer how do you think you are going to fit in? What are you looking for in a company? How do you measure your own performance? What kind of pressures have you encountered at work? Are you a self-starter? Give me examples to demonstrate this? What changes in the workplace have caused you difficulty and why? How do you feel about working long hours and/or weekends? Give me an example of when you have been out of your depth. What have you failed to achieve to date? What can you bring to this organisation?

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Working in the UK
Michael Page International offers three types of assignments in the UK: Permanent Continuous employment You must hold the appropriate visa/passport Notice period 13 months typically Company benefits (pensions, car, healthcare, holiday etc) Paid by the employer on a monthly basis Fixed Term Contract Pro rata salary Set start and end date Notice period (1 week to 1 month) Paid by employer (usually on a monthly basis) Temporary Flexible working timeframe Paid hourly/daily Notice period 1 week Paid by agency payroll on a weekly basis The majority of candidates choose to undertake temporary employment when they first arrive partly because the market moves a lot faster, making it generally quicker to secure a temporary role. Additionally, it enables individuals to build up their UK experience without being tied to one organisation. It is worth noting that some temporary assignments can offer the option of becoming permanent.

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Pay In addition to fair pay, many UK employees enjoy a range of benefits such as performance related pay that links your salary to your individual performance, that of your team, of the business as a whole or all of the above. It can be given as an alternative to, or as well as, an annual bonus, with the amount dependent on the type and level of work you do. Flexible benefit schemes enable you to choose the perks that suit you. Tax efficient benefits, such as childcare vouchers and salary sacrifice pension contributions are very popular. Some employers design their own share scheme, but most prefer to make use of favourable tax treatment available through the Inland Revenue (Save As You Earn). Permanent Health Insurance covers you and in some cases your family, in the event of long term illness or death. Wellness perks include gym membership and health screening. Tax & National Insurance You pay Income Tax on: your wages if you are employed; the profits from your business if youre self employed; interest from shares; rental income; money paid from a trust. Not all income is taxable and youre only taxed on income above a certain level. Everyone who is a resident in the UK for tax purposes has a personal allowance which is the amount of income they can earn or receive each year tax-free. Above this threshold, the amount of tax you pay is calculated accordingly. Your employer is responsible for deducting tax and National Insurance from your salary before you receive it. This system is called Pay As You Earn (PAYE). Each payday, your employer should give you a pay-slip. Its a receipt for the tax youve paid, showing details of your earnings before tax (your gross pay), Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs). You pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to build up your entitlement to certain social security benefits, including the State Pension. The type and level of NIC you pay depends on how much you earn and whether youre employed or self employed. Cont.

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Tax & National Insurance Cont. Your National Insurance number (NI number) is your own personal account number. The number ensures that the National Insurance contributions and tax you pay are properly recorded on your account. It also acts as a reference number for the whole social security system. If you dont already have a NI number you must apply for one as soon as you start work. Telephone the Helpline on 0845 600 0643. Financial Management Recently there have been legislative changes designed to tackle tax avoidance through the use of limited companies. Historically, as a temp you could provide your services either through: 1. a composite limited company 2. an umbrella company, or 3. a personal service company Revenue & Customs felt that the use of a composite limited company was a clear attempt to avoid taxes and consequently, the new legislation focuses on the role of the limited company providers who facilitated or assisted in the use of composite limited companies (Managed Service Companies). As a direct consequence of the new legislation, the entire control of the limited company is the responsibility of the individual. You can continue to use personal service companies, but all decisions have to be made by you, the contractor. A further direct result of the legislative changes is that all Managed Service Companies have stopped providing their composite limited companies product. Therefore, if you wish to work as a limited company, then this is either done through an umbrella company or a personal service company. Under the umbrella structure you will be an employee and shareholder of the company, but the limited company deducts NCIs & PAYE from your pay. The net effect is that in the majority of cases you will be in the same position as if you were PAYE directly through Michael Page.

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General Information
Checklist: 6 Months Register with Michael Page. Complete your CV template from Michael Page and start preparing travel documents. Check you have a valid passport. Contact the relevant embassy for a Visa application form or download a form and view information on their website. 3 Months Open a bank account in the UK. This process can take a number of weeks so we suggest, if possible, doing it before you leave home. Compare flight options and book your ticket. Inform Michael Page once your flight has been booked and/or your visa has been approved.

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1 Month Hand in notice to work and obtain written references from your current employers. Set up a hotmail or gmail email account. File your Tax Return. Arrange a registration interview with Michael Page for your arrival in the UK. * If you are not able to open a bank account before you arrive then we can help you with this by providing you with a letter of introduction for HSBC. 3 Weeks Arrange accommodation overseas. Contact your bank to change the status of your accounts as necessary and obtain call free numbers should you need to contact the bank whilst you are away. 2 Weeks Record your contact details for friends and family. Photocopy all important documents. Take two copies of each and leave one copy with a friend or family member and take the other with you. Save a copy of your CV on your email. 1 Week Organise what to pack. Contact Michael Page with any last minute questions or queries. Start applying to vacancies on the Michael Page website in preparation of your arrival: www.michaelpage.co.uk On Arrival Purchase a UK SIM Card. Update Michael Page with your new contact details and re-confirm your appointment. Apply for your National Insurance number.

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Cost of Living
Living in the UK, particularly in London, can be very expensive compared to average Australian or New Zealand living costs. Obviously the cost of living will vary from individual to individual depending on where you live, how much you earn and how you spend it, however it is a good idea to prepare financially prior to your arrival. The key is to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses for the first month including bond and rent, travel costs, mobile phone, Internet access, food and entertainment. The good news is that wages in London are generally higher than elsewhere, so once you secure a job, your budgeting should become easier. Below is a general estimate of everyday items in the UK. Milk (1 pint) Pint of Beer Loaf of bread CD Coffee in Starbucks Kit Kat Newspapers McDonalds Meal Theatre Ticket Cinema Ticket One Tube Journey Taxi between Heathrow & Central London 0.40 3.00 1.37 12.00 2.40 0.48 0.50 4.50 24.00 8.50 4.00 each way 40.00 70.00

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Accommodation
Finding a place to live in the UK can require stamina - not just in deciding the location, but how much rent you are prepared to pay. Most people decide to stay within close distance of Central London as the chances of securing a higher paying role are increased. Most Antipodeans moving to London choose to live in the areas around Hammersmith, Fulham, Sheppherds Bush, Acton, Dollis Hill, West Hampstead and Clapham. The further out you live, the cheaper the rents, but remember the cost of the Tube and especially a cab ride home after a night out in the city will be more expensive. Rental accommodation is available from three main providers private landlords, local councils and housing associations. Private landlords normally rent their property at the market rate and have the right to increase the rent depending on the length of tenancy. Make sure you get a tenancy agreement and read it carefully before you sign anything. A private landlord will also normally ask for a deposit. To protect yourself, make sure that the condition of the property and any items of furniture are recorded correctly in the inventory. You should also check that the tenancy agreement states the deposit amount, who holds the deposit, under what circumstances money can be deducted from the deposit (eg. for unpaid rent or damages to property) and when you will get the deposit back. Most leases are for 6 to 12 months and most landlords will require proof of employment and bank references. Letters of recommendation from previous landlords are also helpful. Michael Page can provide you with a letter of reference for your landlord if you secure work through us. You can contact the local council to see if they have a list of accredited landlords in your area. You can also search for a letting agent who is registered with the government backed National Approved Lettings Scheme.

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Average Cost of Accommodation in London


Flat-Share per month East London West London South London North London 290-290 (single) 430-600 (double) 280-430 (single) 459-690 (double) 280-500 (single) 350-650 (double) 300-400 (single) 430-550 (double) One bedroom rental per month 650-750 700-800 600-700 650-750

Bank Accounts Opening a bank account in the UK is historically very difficult to arrange upon arrival. However, Michael Page International has established a relationship with HSBC in the UK, which allows our candidates to set up a bank account quickly and easily on arrival*. Once you have met with your Michael Page Consultant, your Global Opportunities Team will provide you with a letter of recommendation that you will need to take to HSBC along with: Passport Three months of original bank statements to confirm your address in your home country (PO Box addresses will not be accepted) Australian utilities bill with previous home address *You will need to open the account within the first three weeks of arrival to avoid the risk of being refused a bank account. Please note the account is typically only a basic savings account and has no overdraft facility. Other bank account options Contact your own bank in Australia. Ask your bank if they are able to assist you with an account in the UK through their company or an affiliated company.

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HSBC Australia If you have held an account in Australia for more than six months, please contact your local branch If you are a new customer they will refer you to a Travelex representative (see below) Travelex Open a HSBC account with HSBC before you leave. There is an establishment fee A deposit is required which is paid in Australian dollars and then transferred into your UK account A current passport, proof of your current address and your Australian bank statements are required The account will take a minimum of five weeks to open For more information visit: www.travelex.com.au or call 1800 637 642. Medical The National Health Service (NHS) is a public service that provides you with free or subsidised medical treatment while you are working in the UK. You will need to register with a local doctor, also known as a General Practitioner (GP). Once registered, you will be entitled to free medical advice and treatment. In order to register with a GP you will need to contact your local GP. Should an emergency arise and you are not yet registered with a GP, you can visit the Accident and Emergency department at any hospital. Alternatively, you can call 999 for an emergency ambulance. Should you require a dentist whilst residing in the UK you will need to register with a National Health Service dentist, although you will have to pay for treatment (you do not need to register with a dentist until you need dental care). To find GP surgeries, opticians, dental practices, chemists/pharmacies, NHS Walkin Centres and hospitals in your area, call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit the NHS website www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

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Transport
The UK has an extensive, privatised train network that covers most of the country. Tickets are available on the spot from any station, for travel to and from anywhere on the network. However as a general rule for longer journeys, tickets should be booked as early as possible to get the best deal. The best place to find train times and fares and to book in advance is the National Rail Website - www.nationalrail.co.uk Alternatively call 08457 48 49 50 from anywhere in the UK. London itself has one of the most comprehensive public transport systems in the world. Despite Londoners constantly grumbling, the Tube, Docklands Light Railway, Tramlink and London Overground are far more reliable than locals would have you believe. So much so, nearly a third of households do not feel the need to own a car. Transport for London (TFL) is a government organisation responsible for all public transport. Visit their website for maps plus an excellent journey planner www.tfl.gov.uk They also offer a 24-hour travel information line with route advice and up to the minute information on services. Oyster is an electronic smart card run by TFL which enables travellers to switch between modes of transport on one ticket. You can charge up an Oyster card with electronic funds. Automatic deductions are made for each journey, with a single trip using the Oyster card costing you less than buying a single ticket outright. If you hold a valid international drivers licence you can drive for up to 12 months in the UK. If you plan to stay in the UK for longer than 12 months it is recommended that you obtain a UK licence. The application form is called a D100 and is available at any Post Office. A car will get you pretty much anywhere in the UK but remember the cars drive on the left. Parking can be difficult in the UKs larger cities and very expensive. Petrol is heavily taxed and is also expensive. Traffic can be very heavy, especially during rush hour. To counteract this rush hour phenomenon, many cities operate a Park and Ride scheme, with car parks on the edge of the city and cheap buses into the city centre. Many cities and large towns offer cheap travel cards for use on these. Coaches are a popular low cost option for longer distance travel in Britain. Though cheaper than rail travel they tend to be slower and less frequent. The largest coach companies in the UK are National Express, CityLink and Megabus.

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Useful Websites and Contacts


Accommodation and utilities: www.lastminute.com Short term accommodation deals www.expedia.co.uk Short term accommodation deals www.gumtree.com UK Share/Rent www.tntmagazine.com London Rent/Share www.net-lettings.co.uk London Hostels/Flat Share/Rent www.loot.com UK Share/Rent www.studios92.com UK Share/Hostel www.moveflat.com London Flat Share/Rent www.flatmateclick.co.uk UK Flat Share www.findaproperty.com UK Buy/Rent www.email4property.co.uk UK Buy/Rent www.fish4homes.co.uk UK Buy/Rent www.hotproperty.co.uk UK Buy/Rent www.foxtons.co.uk Estate agents in London and Surrey (Buy/Rent) http://www.direct.gov.uk/ en/HomeAndCommunity/ YourlocalcouncilandCouncilTax/ CouncilTax/index UK Council tax www.tvlicensing.co.uk TV License www.ukpower.co.uk Compares gas, electricity and dual fuel prices between suppliers Food and entertainment: www.tntmagazine.com www.ticketmaster.co.uk www.lastminute.com www.ticketline.co.uk www.sainsbury.co.uk Supermarket www.tesco.com Supermarket www.waitrose.com Supermarket www.timeout.com Keeps you up-to-date with clubs, food, art and film www.toptable.co.uk Restaurant booking site for the UK www.squaremeal.co.uk UK Restaurant & Venue Guide www.marksandspencer.com Similar to David Jones Food & clothes retailer

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Things to do in London: www.livinginlondon.net www.timeout.com/london www.thisislondon.co.uk www.visitlondon.com www.londontown.com www.inlondon.com Living in the UK: www.visitbritain.com www.multimap.com Maps, route finder and directions www.direct.gov.uk/ Governmentcitizensandrights/ LivingintheUK/DG_073741 Public holiday dates www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Search for Dentists, Doctors, Opticians, Pharmacies www.metoffice.gov.uk UK weather www.royalmail.com UK Post Office www.postoffice.co.uk UK Post Office Media: www.bbc.co.uk www.sky.com www.ft.com www.theindependent.co.uk www.times.co.uk www.timesonline.co.uk www.guardian.co.uk www.telegraph.co.uk www.dailymail.co.uk www.thesun.co.uk

Phone, Mobile & Directory Services: www.thelink.com Independent mobile phone retailer www.carphonewarehouse.com Retailer of mobile phones and services www.phones4u.co.uk Independent mobile phone retailer www.bt.com British Telecom, Similar to Telstra www.yell.com Yellow Pages Travel and Transport www.nationalexpress.com Coach travel throughout the UK www.nationalrail.co.uk Train travel in the UK www.thetrainline.com Train times, book train tickets www.eurostar.com Train travel across Europe www.whichbudget.com Cheap flights from budget airlines www.travelsupermarket.com Compare the best travel deals www.expedia.co.uk Book flights, hotels etc www.ebookers.com Book flights, hotels etc www.hostelworld.com Book hostels worldwide Cont.

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Visa and work information www.ukvisas.gov.uk UK Border Agency www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk Official UK visa information www.ukinaustralia.fco.gov.uk British High Commission, Canberra www.australia.org.uk Australian High Commission, London www.workpermit.com Immigration advice site www.skillclear.co.uk Immigration & visa services www.fragomen.com Immigration lawyers www.workingholidayguru.com Information for Aussies travelling overseas www.ukinnewzealand.fco.gov.uk British High Commission in New Zealand www.hmrc.gov.uk HM Revenue and Customs UK tax website www.hmrc.gov.uk/faqs/ynino.htm National Insurance information

World Traveller information www.smartraveller.gov.au Important information for Australian travellers www.timeticker.com World Clock www.timeanddate.com World calendar www.xe.com Exchange rates www.embassyworld.com Directory of world embassies Other useful websites www.ato.gov.au Australian Tax information www.ato.gov.au/super Superannuation information www.medicareaustralia.gov.au Medicare while overseas www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/ quarantine/index.htm Pet travel scheme

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Contact numbers Emergency Services: 999 Directory assistance: 118 118 or 118 500 International assistance: 153 Australian High Commission: 020 7887 5776 (Consular and Passport Office) NHS Direct: 0845 4647 UK Reverse call number: 0800 REVERSE Post office helpline: 08457 223 344 Royal Mail Customer Service: 08457 740 740 Managed Service Companies i4 Group Limited AUS freecall 1800 612 712 NZ freecall 0800 520 028 e info@i4groupau.com w www.i4groupau.com myOE my Overseas Experience AUS freecall 1300 654 484 NZ freecall 0800 GO MYOE (0800 466 963) e jhenderson@myOE.com & ktrigg@myOE.com w www.myOE.com CXC Consultants Exchange AUS freecall 1300 720 614 NZ freecall 0800 400 036 e emma.bunch@cxcglobal.co.uk w www.cxcglobal.com Smooth Migration e info@smoothmigration.com w www.smoothmigration.com *Michael Page would like to emphasise that none of the companies listed above are approved or preferred and no guarantees can be given as to whether they may be able to provide the solution that is the most beneficial to you.

Specialists in Global Recruitment


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Contact us
For more information on living and working in the UK, or to discuss available job opportunities, please contact us. If you are in Australia: Marie Gilham e globalopportunities@michaelpage.com.au t +61 2 8292 2082 If you are in New Zealand: Alex Neal e globalopportunities@michaelpage.com.au t +64 9 354 8116

New Zealand

Australia

London

Specialists in Global Recruitment


www.michaelpage.co.uk

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