Testimonial
"I first got in contact with OES while still travelling in Australia in the hope of securing a job in London on my return to the UK. From that initial call they kept in constant touch keeping me informed of developments. OES secured an interview for me, making all the arrangements. On succesfully obtaining the post, OES made my move to London hassle free and enjoyable. I would recommend their service to anyone". Catherine, London.
Some questions about Working and Living in the UK
Here are just a few questions we are asked about UK employment,
for more general questions, visit our general section on Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What salary can I expect to earn in the UK?
Salaries in the UK vary according to the type of employer you are with. The Biggest employer in the UK is the National Health Service (NHS), The NHS pays on a grading scale, A - I. OES can advise you on what grade you can expect. Private facilities pay according to skills and experience.
Q. What is the NHS Grading system
The Grading System of payment for Nurses in the NHS has been devised so that each year the Nurse moves up a point on the Salary Scale within the Grade under which she/he has been employed. Newly qualified Staff Nurses are graded "D", an experienced Staff Nurse "E", a Junior Sister / Charge Nurse "F", a Senior Sister / Ward Manager "G", and a Nurse Practitioner / Management role "H" & "I".
Q. Will I be able to work in the same position in the UK that I am in at home?
This depends on your experience and whether you have any relevant courses for your speciality. It also can depend on whether you achieve registration for your speciality, for example: Very few overseas Midwives get direct registration as Midwives in the UK
Q. Will I be provided with accomodation, and what is it like?
Most of our client hospitals provide accomodation, some even pay for your first months rent. The majority of accomodations are in the style of a single room with a sink, some have ensuite, and shared communal facilities.
Q. What hours am I expected to work?
Full time Nurses in the UK are usually rostered for 150 hours a month, if you are working long shifts (12 hours) then you would normally work 9 days and 4 nights per month. Other shifts are earlys (0730 - 1530), Late's (1300 -2130) and Nights (2100 - 0800).
Q. Will I be offered further training?
As a permanent member of staff you can expect some professional development, some of our nurses have been given training opportunities to get registration in their speciality, for example Adult to Childrens Nursing.
Q. How will I get a work permit?
Once you have been offered a position, OES will complete the necessary paperwork on your behalf. This usually takes a week and the permit is sent to you by courier before your departure.
Q. Will my flight be paid for?
The majority of our clients will pay for a single flight from your home country to the UK.
Q. What is the minimun contract period?
At OES we ask you committ to staying with an employer for at least one year. If you want to work for a shorter period than this, it is best to discuss it with one of the team before applying.
Q. Can I bring my family and pets with me?
If you intend on bringing family and pets, then you will need alternative accomodation, as most employers only provide single accomodation. Pets can usually be brought in on The Pets Passport scheme, it is best to discuss this with the Team prior to application.
Q.How do I start the process?
Register some brief details for a call back from a team member
To get the most up to date information on vacancies in this country, we recommend you complete our short registration form.
Check out our comprehensive living and working in the UK guide.
