Mar 27, 2012
— read in fullMoving to a new home checklist
It can be hard work getting used to a new place. But you'll find it much easier to settle in if you get to know where all the important services, shops and facilities are.
If you’ve recently moved to a new area, work through this checklist of things to familiarise yourself with. You may even want to keep a list of useful contact numbers to hand- just in case!
Local shops
Work out where your local supermarkets, markets and newsagents are and remember what times they open and close. This could be useful for when you need to do a big shop or just pick up a few bits.
Doctors
Don’t leave registering with a doctor until you are ill. Some doctors ask to see proof of ID like a passport or driving licence. Find out what you need and get registered so you won’t have to waste any time if you do get sick.
Find your local GP/Doctor.
Dentist
Like with doctors surgeries, it makes sense to find a dentist as early as possible. If you register with an NHS dentist, you should be eligible for reduced costs. You should see your dentist every six to nine months.
Find your local Dentist surgery.
Post Office
The Post Office provides a lot of the forms you may need such as applications for passports and driving licence as well as other services.
Pharmacy/Chemists
If you do get ill and need to collect a prescription, it’s useful to know the nearest place you can collect it. Trekking across town for your medicine when you’re ill is never fun!
Police station
Hopefully, you will never need to visit the police station but it’s handy to know where it is. Try to get a local phone number for reporting non-urgent crimes rather than dialling 999 and keep it on your useful contacts list.
Local authority or council
Most areas are covered by three different types of local authority: town or parish council, district or borough council (dealing with things like rubbish collection and some leisure facilities) or county or metropolitan councils (dealing with things like rubbish disposal, highways, housing support and education).
They all help the public with different matters. Click here to find out which local authority will answer your questions, or visit your town hall or library to pick up a leaflet.
Library
Even if you’re not a bookworm, the library has loads of information that can help you. It advertises local clubs, events and societies, which may help you meet people and settle in better. The people there will also be able to help you with most questions you have about the area and may even be able to give you a free map.
Transport links
Getting to know the place you’re living is easier if you’ve got wheels. However, if you don’t have a car, get a copy of the bus timetables from the library so that you know which buses will take you where. Also jot down the numbers of local taxi firms on your contacts list- just in case!
Job Centre Plus
If you’re looking for work and/or claiming job seeker’s allowance, you will need to know where your local Job Centre Plus is to make an appointment. If you need any advice on this, you can always visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau too.
Related links
- Independent living: Basic household repairs
- Coping with change
- How to make new friends
- Top tips for university travel
- Registering with a doctor
- Registering with a dentist
Your shout!
Have you got any other questions about moving home? Share your thoughts by posting a comment using the link below.
