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Newcastle University

 

Practical information

Adjusting to everyday life in the UK

Life in Newcastle may be quite different to what you're used to. Our advice will ensure a confident transition.

In this section, we offer practical information about everyday concerns you may have while living in Newcastle. Whether it's finding the right power adaptors, planning your computing arrangements, buying a mobile phone, or finding or doctor, we can point you in the right direction.

Power and adapters 

Voltage in the UK is 230-240V. If you come from a country where the standard voltage is 120V, your electronic equipment will create a fire hazard, so it is important to account for this. You can purchase voltage converters which allow you to safely use your electronic equipment.

The UK plug is a three-pronged BS 1363. You can purchase plug adaptors which will allow you to plug your electronics into this socket. Items like laptop computers and digital camera chargers often have a built in voltage adapter and will only need a plug adapter to work properly abroad.

Computers 

There are computers available to all students for use in the Resource Centre, as well as laptops for overnight check out. Wireless networks cover both the INTO Centre and University campus and are free for students.

Phones 

Mobile phones can be costly to bring abroad, but you can ask your network provider if they offer an international plan. Please note, you will be given a free international SIM card when you arrive in the UK.

Alternatively, you can always download Skype, a free computer programme that allows you to use your computer like a phone and make free international calls to other Skype users.

Healthcare in the UK

All INTO students must have emergency medical insurance as a condition of being accepted on their course of study at INTO Newcastle University. You should inform your medical insurance company as soon as you have had any treatment.

Good healthcare is one of the most important considerations for students living abroad. It is best to register with a doctor as soon as you arrive in the UK and Student Services will give you the information you need to do so.

National Health Service

If you are on a course lasting six months or more you can get most health care free of charge from the National Health Service (NHS). This applies from the first day of your stay in the UK.

If you are here for less than six months you can get essential treatment at an NHS walk-in centre, or at the accident and emergency (A&E) department of a hospital.

You should also ensure that you bring prescriptions (in English) for any medicines you regularly take, in case you need to show a doctor.

Dentists

If you are eligible for NHS treatment you will be eligible for treatment from a dentist accepting NHS patients. Dentists accepting new patients are extremely limited.

Opticians

Eye tests are available at opticians, which can be found on the High Street. You will have to pay a charge of around £25 for an eye test. You will need to pay for lenses and frames which cost from £35 upwards.

Emergency healthcare

In an emergency, you can dial the number 999 from any phone and request the help of emergency paramedics. The UK health system is based on a system of local doctor centres that deal with routine and minor health issues, and unless it's an emergency, these will usually be your first point of contact for healthcare issues.