🏡 Settling In

Making Scotland Feel Like Home

Moving to a new country can be exciting—but also a bit overwhelming.
This section gives you all the essentials to help you settle into daily life in Scotland quickly, confidently, and sustainably.

🚨 Emergency Contacts

If you ever need help, here are the most important numbers to keep saved on your phone:

Emergency Services: 999 (Police, Fire, or Ambulance urgent only)

Non-Emergency Police: 101 (For non-urgent situations)

NHS 24 (Medical Advice): 111 (For health concerns when your GP is closed)

Student Wellbeing & Counselling (Napier): +44 (0)131 455 2459 (Support for your physical and mental wellbeing)

Citizens Advice Scotland: 0800 028 1456 (Free legal, housing, and benefits advice)

💡 Tip: Save these as favourites in your phone for quick access.

You can also visit the NHS Inform website for guidance on registering with a GP, dental care, and emergency treatment.

🏠 Finding Accommodation or Flatmates

Whether you’re just arriving or looking for a new place, here are your safest and most sustainable options:

• 🏡 Napier Student Accommodation: Fully managed, short-term leases, and safe.

• 🏢 Private Rentals: Use verified platforms such as Rightmove, SpareRoom, or Citylets.

• 🤝 Flatmate Groups: Check out student Facebook communities like “Edinburgh Flatshare & Roommates”.

• ♻️ Sustainable Living Tip: Choose energy-efficient homes (EPC rating A–C) and use reusable items when moving in.

⚠️ Watch out for scams:
Never send money before viewing a flat, and always use verified letting agents (look for ARLA Propertymark or SafeDeposits Scotland).

📱 Essential Scottish Apps

Make everyday life easier with these must-have apps for newcomers:

🚌 Getting Around

• Transport for Edinburgh – Live bus and tram times

• Google Maps / Citymapper – For walking and public transport routes

• Nextbike / Beryl – Bike rentals in Edinburgh

🥦 Living Sustainably

• Too Good To Go – Save discounted food that would otherwise go to waste

• Refill Scotland – Find local water refill stations and zero-waste shops

• Recycle for Scotland – Check what can be recycled in your area

💬 Staying Connected

• Meetup – Find local student events, hobby groups, and communities

• WhatsApp / Telegram – Most students use group chats for quick coordination

• Napier App – Stay updated with university events, notices, and room bookings

☕ Quick Tips for Everyday Life

• Banking: Monzo, Revolut, or Starling are easy for international students.

• Groceries: Lidl, Aldi, and Tesco are affordable; check for student discounts.

• Weather: Always carry a waterproof jacket—Edinburgh’s weather changes fast!

• Community: Join one of our Forth & Future Tea Events to meet other students and get local advice.

📦 Downloadable Starter Packs

Make settling in simple with our printable checklists:

📄 Scottish Living Starter Pack (PDF)
📄 Eco-Friendly Living Guide (PDF)
📄 Transport & Travel Essentials (PDF)

💬 Need Help?

If you’re struggling to adjust or need guidance, reach out to one of our Forth & Future Ambassadors — they’ve been through the same journey and are here to help.

“The goal is not just to live in Scotland, but to belong here — sustainably, respectfully, and joyfully.”