London Help

London Help

27 October, 2008
by: SpoonfedMeg

Finding help in London can be a daunting task whether you’re a tourist, newly arrived in the city, or even a long-time local.  But London help isn't quite as elusive as you might think. While London can be overwhelming, understanding local services and public transportation and being aware of your surroundings will make your London visit, your new home or your late nights on the town that much more enjoyable.

London Help: Emergencies
In the case of an emergency, immediately dial 999 for access to police, fire and ambulance services.

For non-emergency police assistance, the London Metropolitan Police Service has set up a contact number at 0300 123 1212.  Phone operators at this number can also further direct your calls to other local authorities.

London Help: Getting Home Safely
The London Underground and Overground rail services do not run 24 hours per day.  Check with Transport for London or any station operator for last train times.

Bus routes with the letter N before the route number operate 24 hours per day and are available throughout the city but operate after hours with much less frequency than they do during the day.  Check with Transport for London for bus routes and schedules.

Licensed cabs are available across London.  The best way to ensure you are taking a licensed taxi service is to text ‘Taxi’ to 60835 and you will be sent the numbers for three cab companies in your area.

London Help: Safe People and Places
If you ever feel unsafe or lost in London, look for the nearest Underground station where you can seek assistance from station operators.  After closing hours, you can also get help from night bus operators who can offer directions or contact local authorities.

For safe places throughout the city, there are hundreds of public buildings including police stations, libraries, and public museums with free entry where you can find directions and contacts for local authorities.

London Help: Health and Injuries
For basic health needs, use the National Health Services website to find local doctors, hospitals and health services.  In case of an emergency, dial 999.

London Help: Getting Settled and Meeting New People
When living in a city as big and diverse as London, even simple tasks can be overwhelming.  Where do you go to buy home furniture; to do your grocery shopping; to post your mail? The best way to get general advice in London is to build a network of friends and contacts.  Some great websites for meeting new people, finding interest groups and learning about London:

http://www.gumtree.com – a classified listings service where you can find everything from a used television to a flat to a date for Friday night.

http://www.meetup.com – a network of interest groups that meet up around the city.

http://www.spoonfed.co.uk/london – that’s right, right here you can find great events where you can meet new people with similar interests.  Why not check out what’s on in London right now by searching for events you enjoy?

Finding London help can be a challenge but there are many ways to make sure you stay safe and well-informed in the city!

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SpoonfedMeg