Living in the UK
The Basics
The UK is made up of Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and Northern Ireland, and is one of the 27 member states of the European Union (EU).
The capital cities are London – England, Edinburgh – Scotland, Cardiff – Wales, and Belfast – Northern Ireland.
The UK has an approximate population of 60.6 million and a land and water area of 152,033 square miles.
Most people are Christian (71%), although all other religions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam and Sikhism are freely practised. About 23% of Britain follow no particular religion.
The UK is a constitutional monarchy that is a representative democracy, where Queen Elizabeth II is recognised as the head of state, and the elected Prime Minister – Gordon Brown – is the head of government.
Britain uses the pound sterling. The sign for the Great British Pound (GBP) is £.
Voltage is 240 volts AC at 50HZ. Appliances generally use standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets. You will need a plug adaptor for Aussie & NZ appliances, however you will not need a voltage adaptor.
Be Safe in Britain
Britain is a safe country with low rates of street crime and violence. As always using common sense will maximise your personal safety.
The UK’s emergency telephone number is 999; use this for ambulance, police or fire services. As in Australia and NZ, contact your local police station for all non emergencies.
Using public transport & taxis:
- Avoid waiting alone at bus stops and on train platforms.
- On a double-decker bus, sit downstairs where the driver can see you.
- Avoid sitting in an empty carriage on trains and the Underground.
- Check the time of the last train, bus or tube back to your accommodation.
- Walking near railway lines can be very dangerous; never touch them.
- Always use a licensed taxi – check the back of the taxi to ensure it carries an official licence plate. Minicabs that stop in the street may be cheaper, but they are not as safe as those you arrange over the phone.
- If you need immediate assistance when travelling on a bus or train you can call the British Transport Police free on 0800 40 50 40.
On the streets:
- Never carry large amounts of money with you, but always make sure you have enough for a phone call and a bus or taxi home.
- Keep your handbag and belongings close to your body and wear them in front of you.
- Avoid using cash machines at night or in isolated places, and always be aware of people around you.
- Try not to display expensive items like laptops, mobile phones and jewellery.
- Avoid confrontation – if you are harassed, try to remove yourself from the situation.
- If you think you are being followed, find the nearest public place and ask for assistance.
Also see our section on UK Cost Of Living.
For everything you need to kick off a great UK experience get a Restless UK Essentials Pack for only $189 plus $10 postage.
Visit our Shop HERE.
Call us on: AUS 1300 141 033, NZ +612 9318 7888 or email an enquiry HERE.
