New to Manchester
It can feel exciting and overwhelming when you move to a new city. There are some useful websites to give you information about the support that is available for you and help you settle in to your new life in Manchester.
Urgent Medical Help
You should go to an A&E department in a hospital for a life-threatening medical problem. If it is an extreme emergency, you can phone 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Click on the link below to find out more about the right service for your needs, including where to find your local emergency services.
GP Services
A GP is a family doctor. They are highly trained in all aspects of general medicine. All UK residents are entitled to the services of an NHS GP. You can visit your GP surgery if you have a problem with your health and it is not an emergency.
You should register with a GP as soon as possible. The NHS website can help you find a GP near where you live. To register with a GP you will need to show them proof of ID and address.
If you want to see your GP, you need to make an appointment. You can make an appointment by telephone, online or in person. If it is not urgent, you might need to wait a few days for an appointment. It is also possible to have an appointment over the phone.
GP surgeries are usually open Monday-Friday 8.30am- 6.30pm. Some surgeries are open on a Saturday. If your GP surgery is closed, you can phone the non-emergency NHS 111 phone line.
Go on the NHS website to find more details about the services provided by a GP. This includes information about how to find a GP, registering with a practice and making an appointment.
Dentists
If you are looking for an NHS dentist near you, the NHS website can help you find one. Find out about what services NHS dentists can offer you, including the cost of treatment.
Finding a job
If you want to work or claim benefits, you will need a National Insurance number. You can phone 0800 141 2075 to apply. You will then need to go for an interview at Jobcentre Plus. You must show them your passport or biometric residence permit to prove that you can work in the UK. Go to the GOV.UK website for more information.
Your local Jobcentre Plus can give you free help and advice if you are unemployed and actively looking for work. It is a personalised service for anyone looking for a new job- the advisor can give information on jobs near you, tell you about training and courses, and help you with your CV and job application forms. You can also get help with applying for benefits.
Citizens Advice
This useful service is a charity that provides confidential advice for free. It can help you move forward if you have different kinds of problems, such as money, legal or family issues.
You can call them on 03444 111 222 or visit them in one of the 13 sites across Manchester.
Click on the link below to find out more information, including the location and opening times of your nearest Citizens Advice.
Children’s Services
The Manchester City Council website provides lots of useful information on a wide range of services for children and their carers in Manchester. This includes information on schools, nurseries and activities at your local children’s centre.
Libraries
Visit your local library, where you can find a range of facilities such as:
- Books to borrow, including some in other languages
- CDs and DVDs to borrow
- Free wifi
- Computer facilities
- Printing and photocopying
- Newspapers and magazines to read
- Information about local services
Careers Advice
The National Careers Service can give advice and guidance to you to help you make decisions about learning, training and work. You can open an account on their website or phone them and speak to a trained advisor.
Food Banks
A food bank is a charity that gives food to people in poverty to avoid hunger. Click on the link to find your local food bank or other emergency food provider.