If you’re an overseas doctor settling into the UK, turning your new place into a home is a big step. Whether you’re renting or buying, furnishing it can feel daunting with a busy NHS schedule. This guide offers practical tips and budget-friendly ideas to help you get started.
Starting Fresh or Bringing Items
Deciding what to bring depends on your move. Shipping furniture from abroad can be costly and slow, often £1,000 or more for a small load, with customs fees on top. Many opt to sell or store items back home and buy anew in the UK. If you’re here short-term, focus on essentials like a bed and table. For longer stays, invest in pieces that suit your space.
Where to Shop
The UK has plenty of options for all budgets:
- High Street Stores: IKEA offers affordable, flat-pack furniture, perfect for rentals. Delivery starts at £20, and assembly’s on you. Argos has quick-pick items like sofas and desks, with same-day collection often free.
- Online Retailers: Amazon stocks basics like kitchenware, with fast shipping if you’re a Prime member (£8.99 monthly). Wayfair and Dunelm sell stylish pieces, from lamps to rugs, with deals if you watch for sales.
- Second-Hand Finds: Charity shops like British Heart Foundation or Oxfam sell preloved furniture cheap, sometimes under £50 for a chair. Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace list local deals, though you’ll need transport.
- Speciality Shops: John Lewis offers durable, higher-end goods with warranties, ideal if you’re settling long-term. Expect to spend more, starting at £200 for a decent sofa.
Budgeting Wisely
Furnishing costs add up. A basic setup (bed, mattress, table, chairs) might run £500 to £1,000 from budget stores. Factor in your salary and moving expenses. Renting furnished properties skips upfront costs but limits personal touches. If buying, prioritise essentials first, then add decor later as funds allow.
Measuring Your Space
UK homes, especially rentals, can be snug. Measure rooms before shopping to avoid oversized buys. Standard single beds (90cm x 190cm) fit small spaces, while doubles (135cm x 190cm) suit couples. Check doorways too, as narrow Victorian flats might snag bulky deliveries. Most stores list dimensions online.
Renting vs Buying Furniture
Renting furniture is an option if you’re temporary. Companies like Rent-A-Centre offer packages (bed, sofa, TV) from £20 weekly, with no long-term tie-in. It’s pricier over time but saves hassle. Buying second-hand or flat-pack keeps costs low and lets you keep or sell items when you move.
Handy Tips
Start with a bed for rest after shifts, then add seating and storage. Stick to neutral colours for flexibility if you relocate often. Assemble flat-pack with a mate to speed things up, or pay for delivery-and-build services (around £30-£50 extra). Check rental agreements, as some ban painting or drilling.
Making It Home
Furnishing your UK home is about comfort and practicality. Mix new buys with second-hand treasures to stretch your budget. With a bit of planning, you’ll create a cosy base to recharge between hospital rounds, tailored to your new life.
If you’re interested in working in the UK and would like to discuss this blog, available positions in your specialty, or how we can assist you, please contact our Permanent & Fixed-Term Recruitment team at [email protected].
