Scotland for Ukrainians – A Practical Guide for Displaced People

Public services in Scotland are designed to help Ukrainians who are displaced settle quickly. Once you arrive, go to your local council’s welcome hub to design a plan with a caseworker and place you in the right program. They take your details, confirm where you will stay, and connect you with housing options, health care, and language support. If needed, ask for interpretation; many hubs offer Ukrainian-speaking volunteers and quick access to information in public channels.

In most cases you might stay with a host for a limited period while you find longer-term accommodation. If you are staying, your council arranges stays and can help you arrange private rentals if you prefer; be aware of charges for utilities or rental agreements. There might be a small charge for registration or admin tasks, so check what is included and what you may pay directly. The program provides financial support to hosts to cover costs, and they can help you find other suitable options such as council housing or private leases.

Healthcare in Scotland operates through NHS Scotland. Register with a local GP as soon as possible to get access to services. For children, contact the local authority to arrange school places; state schools have no tuition charges for eligible pupils. Bring documents for your children, including birth certificates and any immunisation records.

You will likely find welcoming groups in libraries, public centers, and museums. In cities, famous parks and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offer safe spaces for families; many programs run in community halls where children can meet peers. Local media, council websites, and Ukrainian associations publish practical information about visas, schooling, and transport. If you want to learn more about Scotland’s public life, visit museums and galleries; many opening times are posted in advance, and there are family-friendly activities at the weekend.

To stay informed, subscribe to official updates from the council and regional media; check where to go for help if you lose documents or need assistance navigating transport. If you have questions about jobs or volunteering, local employers and charities may offer flexible roles; they often welcome volunteers who speak Ukrainian and English.

Arriving in Scotland: 0-72 hours practical steps, emergency contacts, and initial support

Register your entry with the local council within 24 hours to access initial support and housing options. This current step unlocks essential services in the 0-72 hour window. If you are returning after a displacement, inform the team about prior arrangements so they can align plans with your history and the relation to existing supports.

Visit a designated Ukrainian welcome point or the council’s main office to confirm your case and start the aid process. Bring copies of your passport or Ukrainian ID, any visa documents, and translated papers if you have them. Should interpreters be needed, request them; translations are available by the government, and many councils publish translated guides in languages like Spanish for visitors and residents alike. The staff should also set a target date for securing longer-term housing and benefits.

Plan for nights in temporary housing while you secure longer-term shelter. Most councils arrange hotel or hostel vouchers and then move you to settled accommodation as soon as possible. If you have pets, tell the team right away; pet-friendly placements are prioritized where possible because keeping you and your animals together reduces stress. In cities with a tram network, use it to reach the welcome point, supermarkets, or other essential services quickly.

Keep your documents safe and accessible. The government gives you a simple plan and contact details; you should carry key papers and be ready to share contact data for a person in your support network. Look for notices labeled trmkc on official boards to know where to go next. You may also find translated materials in public spaces such as libraries, community centers, and media outlets that cover current steps for newcomers.

Time management is crucial in this phase. In many areas, Monday mornings bring higher activity as new arrivals arrive; plan ahead to avoid delays. The latest rules are published through the official источник, the local council portal, and national government sites; avoid relying on informal sources or social media for critical steps.

Immediate steps you should take (0-6 hours)

Go to the council welcome desk to register your entry, request language support if needed, and obtain a contact for your assigned caseworker.

Confirm accommodation and meals for the next 24 hours, and ask about any essential items you should collect from nearby stores or charity shops.

If you have a medical need, call NHS 111 or your GP; in a life-threatening situation dial 999.

Key contacts and services

Accessing healthcare: registering with a GP and understanding NHS services in Scotland

Register with a GP as soon as you arrive to access urgent and routine care. In Scotland, you can join any GP practice that serves your local area; local host networks and welcome hubs can help you find a nearby option. At the practice, you complete a short health questionnaire and provide basic details (name, date of birth, address, contact details). You may submit this in person or online where offered. After registration, you book appointments by phone or online; thousands of people use this system every day. In a crisis, call NHS 111 for guidance or go to an urgent care centre. If you need immediate help, contact your GP practice to arrange a same-day slot; the head of the practice or the reception team can guide you to the right service. This process helps you live with confidence as you settle.

Registration checklist

Bring proof of address and any photo ID if available; if not, you can start a registration and update details later. Note your current medications, doses, and allergies for the questionnaire. If you stay with a host family, tell the practice about household details that affect care, including any pets. The receptionist can guide you through online or in-person options. Several hubs offer support to newcomers and can help you complete the process. A tip from harry, a volunteer at a welcome hub, is to keep a simple list of medicines and contact numbers to share with the GP. If documents are absent, the practice can begin with the basics and update as soon as possible; there is a design in place to simplify this flow and minimize waiting. It’s a super quick form to finish; things you would need include proof of address and a photo ID when possible.

Understanding NHS services and what to expect

GP services cover general medical care, preventive checks, chronic disease follow-up, and referrals to specialists. For urgent or after-hours needs, you can access out-of-hours services via the practice or the NHS 111 helpline. NHS Inform provides clear service descriptions and how to access them. For people arriving from Ukraine, interpreters and translated information are available, and local wellbeing hubs offer signposting to mental health support, language services, and social care guidance. Care is offered across the worlds of communities in Scotland, with local hubs supporting wellbeing. The most common services linked to GP registration include family medicine, vaccination campaigns, sexual health clinics, maternity and child health, and routine screenings. Attendance at regular check-ups helps you build a care plan and stay on top of health needs. If a crisis occurs, contact the local emergency number or a crisis support line; local hubs can connect you with welfare guidance and practical help. The result is better wellbeing and less stress for you and your family, with clear information on where to reach for care and information. Some areas run february and december vaccination outreach as part of seasonal campaigns; hear about current dates from your GP or local hub. If you trip to a clinic, you can plan ahead; you would hear about the best times to visit from the receptionist.

Housing and tenancy: finding a safe home, rights, and avoiding rental scams

Get a safe home by securing a written tenancy before you pay any money, and learn the rules that protect tenants. Ask for a copy of the contract in English, verify the landlord’s identity, and confirm the deposit amount and the protection method in writing. Ensure the tenancy includes clear terms about repairs, notice, and who pays utilities. A safe home brings great relief and love for your new community, especially when you start outside big urban centers. Make sure you understand every clause.

When you search, use official sources and media coverage to verify listings. Compare the address, photos, and floor plan with the content of the contract. Keep every detail in a folder: printouts, screenshots, and notes from calls. If you arrive for a viewing, bring a trusted friend and check the security, heating, insulation, and the condition of doors and windows, especially in outside areas or older buildings within a mile of key services such as transport hubs, museums, or shops.

Immediate steps when you search for a home

Begin with regional housing offices and the council’s sites, then check a local publication and media for consistency. Ask about the total amount of upfront costs and the monthly rent, with a clear breakdown of bills. Use a video tour if you cannot visit in person, and request verified contact details you can check on a public site. Ensure the property is secure, with functioning locks and heating; if not, move on. If a listing is advertised as available immediately, use a second source to confirm how soon you can move in.

Rights, safeguards, and scam prevention

Know your rights: you must have a written tenancy contract and a secure payment method. Do not pay without a signed agreement or through unofficial channels. If something feels off, tell the landlord you need time to review the contract and consult support services; theres always more help than you expect. If you need translations, request french or italian language support. Carefully review the contract content: term length, notice rules, deposit protection, and repairs obligations. When you arrive in Scotland, contact the council for regional guidance and urgent support for Ukrainians; theres immediate help in cities across the country, including near the airport and within a mile of major transport routes. If you suspect a scam, report it to the local council and use the information in the official publication and the council website. Always compare listings against at least two reliable sources; if a listing tells you to pay quickly or refuses to provide records, walk away.

Education and language support for children: enrollment, schools, and ESOL options for adults

Enroll your child in a local school through the council within the first month after arrival and bring essential documents: proof of address, the child’s birth certificate, vaccination history, and any previous school records. A quick call to the school or education team helps confirm the process and deadlines for term start.

1. Use the council’s school finder to identify nearby primary and secondary options and check how each setting supports language learners.
2. Submit an inquiry with your child’s age, stage of schooling, and any need for ESOL support in the notes or form. Mention if a bilingual contact would help during meetings.
3. If an offer arrives, acknowledge acceptance before the stated deadline and plan the start date with the school. If no place is available, ask about a waiting list and alternative options.
4. Arrange transport if needed; a bus ticket or discounted travel may be available for families in need or living farther from school.
5. Attend the welcome session, meet staff, and ask about daily routines, lunchtime arrangements, and after‑school activities that bolster language practice.

Schools and settings

In Scotland, most children attend state schools at primary and secondary levels, with additional options for specialist provisions and community-supported programs. When language needs exist, schools provide ESOL support, bilingual staff, and peer language assistance. Many settings offer French as a first foreign language in early years, with opportunities to study additional languages later.

ESOL options for adults

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses help adults participate more fully in school communications, work, and daily life. Local colleges, libraries, community centers, and online providers run ESOL at entry to intermediate levels. Seek formats that fit your schedule–daytime, evenings, or weekend sessions–and look for courses that combine literacy, numeracy, and language with practical skills.

Fees vary by provider and eligibility; many learners access free courses or reduced charges. Start with an initial assessment to place you in the right level, and ask about extension options to increase hours or progress to higher levels. Use a simple language plan for everyday tasks: communicating with teachers, handling transport, and supporting your children at home. A practical approach helps your family settle faster and supports classroom engagement.

• Local libraries host ESOL conversation groups and reading circles, often with refreshments after sessions.
• Community centers and language clubs offer informal practice for everyday situations, such as shopping, banking, and parent–teacher meetings.
• Schools commonly provide translation support and bilingual contacts to assist with letters, attendance, and meetings with teachers.
• Ask the council or a regional family service for guidance on available ESOL timelines, intake points, and how to access a starter assessment.

For families, practical steps include keeping a simple file of key documents, asking about transport options, and taking part in language activities that blend learning with social connections. If you’re unsure where to start, contact your local education hub to find the best ESOL path for you and your children.

Work and training: work rights, recognizing qualifications, and entry-level opportunities

Verify your right to work today and open your SDS account to access local job listings, training content, and support from advisers. Then head to the city hall or a nearby job centre for an initial discussion about eligibility and the steps to start applying, which you can do before you settle into a local space.

Right to work and recognizing qualifications

Right to work in Scotland depends on your visa path; many Ukrainians have permission to work, but confirm your status with the relevant authorities. Gather documents: passport or biometric residence permit, Ukrainian residency status, and any official letters. Then use UK ENIC to obtain an evaluation of your foreign qualifications and map them to the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). Prepare translations and certified copies, upload copies to your account, and keep originals safe. Ask a member of your local library or citizen centre for help if you need translations or guidance; this support helps everyone understand what you can offer, and you can share a concise version of your qualifications with readers and your readership. Knowing how your qualifications align with local jobs speeds discussions with recruiters across locations such as hospitals, schools, and offices. Before applying, keep a readable portfolio that speaks to every employer and helps them see your level quickly. This support also provides much encouragement as you navigate the process.

Entry-level opportunities and practical steps

Starting work in a new country is an adventure; this mindset keeps momentum high as you explore entry opportunities. Set aside time each week to review postings and tailor applications. Look for entry-level opportunities in healthcare support, retail, hospitality, logistics, and maintenance. In Scotland many employers hire with minimal local experience for part-time or weekend shifts, so cast a wide net and apply to positions near your housing or in busy areas around your street. Prepare an updated CV and a short cover note that explains your visa status, your willingness to learn, and your language skills. Highlight transferable skills from previous work, volunteering, or family responsibilities; if you speak spanish, mention it as a plus. Once you arrive, you should visit street-level shops, hospitals, and care facilities in your chosen locations, and explore initial training or apprenticeships that your employer offers. For families with children, look for flexible hours or job-share options while you gain experience. Set a practical goal to apply to five postings per week and keep a simple log in your account to track responses and interviews. Attend visitor events or local career fairs when possible; these events build momentum, put you in touch with recruiters, and can lead to on-the-spot interviews. Some roles include travel for a trip or require light travel; confirm allowances with the employer. All available positions can be found on SDS boards, council pages, and partner organizations, and each new application adds to your whole skill profile and momentum, helping you grow as a member of the local workforce.

Momentum in communities: building local networks, volunteering, and sustainable support

Join a local volunteering group within your first week of arrival to build momentum and networks that help with staying safe, tackle practical things, and create unforgettable connections.

Initiate conversations with coordinators or hosts in the first 10 minutes of a shift; a short talk reveals who can help with housing, language support, or transport tips.

Visit museums, community centers, and local stores to meet people from different backgrounds and to learn about the place into which you live; these visits show your willingness to engage and listen. harry from the center often introduces newcomers to ongoing activities.

Build a three-slot volunteering plan and target three regular roles per month, such as helping at a food bank, mentoring youth, or assisting a library; this structure keeps momentum and creates a track you can follow.

Legal basics: for vize și permit questions, consult a trusted charity or council adviser; if needed, there may be an extension process, and you should ask directly about extension options. You must verify all requirements before you start volunteering to avoid any issues.

Choose ecologic friendly activities and plan travel that minimizes carbon impact; encourage car shares, walking, or cycling to meetings below the city average, and consider virtual volunteering when possible.

Maintain momentum with regular touchpoints: weekly check-ins, a hand of contacts you can call, a volume of short updates, and minutes from meetings to capture what you provide and what you still need.

november planning: set a concrete goal and share it with your group; theres a ready-made schedule you can adapt, with milestones that keep the work practical and visible.

Accessibility and inclusion: ensure activities welcome people from all backgrounds and invite newcomers to join; create a loc where everyone can feel useful and respected, and where adventure can be pursued in safe, supported ways.

Find people who can support you long term and provide mutual aid; ask for help when needed and offer help in return to sustain a healthy community network beyond any single event.