It’s that time already, you are getting ready to start your life in the UK for your DClinPsy, Hurray!
If you haven’t already read this in our posts, congratulations on making it so far. These three years will be the most amazing and sometimes overwhelming years of your life, but I have been told (there is a blog here by a recent graduate -The Journey Is On here) that it is worth the sweat.
Moving countries can be exciting, daunting and scary at the best of times, without the added uncertainty of COVID-19. This article will signpost some of the information that we hope will be helpful for you to plan your journey to the U.K. The boring but crucial information below is from different government websites, written in a more fun and succinct manner with timelines to help you plan your journey.
Let's start with the basics, do you have your tickets, accommodation address (even if it's temporary), your visa, passport, paperwork and most importantly baggage ready? If so, perfect! Now you are probably googling, finding this post and reading it; well we have got you covered, so sit back, relax and enjoy the information.
First and foremost, you need to complete a Public Health Passenger Locator form here, 48 hours prior to your travel
(even if your country is not in the list of countries that require self-isolation after you arrive). You will need to get either a printout of the email along or have it ready on your phone to show the border control staffs.
What happens if I don’t do this?
Not completing this form could mean a delay in your immigration process. It could also mean that you don’t get informed via the track and trace service if someone you came in contact with gets COVID-19.
Top Tip- Complete the form.
Do I need to self-isolate?
As a rule of thumb people travelling from most countries need to self-isolate, unless they have been in one of the exempt countries for the last 14 days. Do check the list of exempt countries here as this list changes quite regularly.
What does Self- Isolation in the UK mean?
The UK is a little more relaxed as compared to other countries (e.g., Asia and South East Asia) in their approach to self-isolation. However, these relaxed restrictions do not apply to people who travel from a country that is not on the exempt counties list. So isolation means you will not be able to go out - not even to buy groceries, exercise or view accommodations or get a cup of coffee or tea.
You can call 08081963646, to get volunteer support, also feel free to get in touch with us via email or the Facebook group for any help/advice or support. You can check out our “10 things to prepare/ pack before flying to the UK” written by a trainee who will be travelling to the U.K from Hong Kong here so that you know what to pack to feel comfortable and at home during this time.
What happens once the 14 days are up?
If you do not develop any symptoms you can stop isolating and can start exploring the city, eating out, doing grocery shopping, meeting some of your new classmates and/or family (in a safe way of course).
Last but not least get your information and latest updates on https://www.gov.uk/ / Public health England websites only. The tabloids may over sensationalise the mundane information.
Do I need to wear a mask while commuting to my accommodation?
As of the beginning of September, you will need to wear a mask whenever you are indoors (shops) and/or when you are commuting on the bus, tubes, trains, or hired cars. Most train and tube stations are equipped with hand sanitisers.
Wishing you a safe journey and a wonderful start to the program. We are here to support you and help you when required, so don't be shy to reach out.
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