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A new partnership between VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, and BritBound will induct thousands of first time working holiday makers, international students and overseas professionals to the UK in a scheme suitably named ‘Hit The Ground Running’ package, bookable through visitbritiandirect.com.
Induction sessions, hosted by enthusiastic BritBound representatives three times a week will take place at the Britain & London Visitor Centre, 1 Regent Street. Providing the visitor is eligible to work in the UK (visa evidence required) a bank account along with National Insurance applications can be arranged on their behalf then and there without going to a bank. Staff are also on hand to point long stay visitors in the right direction to find work and accommodation.
Sarah Milne, BritBound’s GM and Founder said: "The new arrangement with the Britain & London Visitor Centre has been an instant success. Our BritBounder’s cannot believe it has all been made so easy for them with many friends back home amazed by the idea. With so much negativity surrounding the economy at the moment it is very encouraging to see the number of our arrivals on the increase. Being able to contribute positively to their experience can only help get the message out that the UK is still the place to head to."
With the administration out of the way, advice and handouts on finding your feet in London and beyond are given out including top tips to help get acquainted with the new destination. BritBound also runs a full time social events calendar to provide a sociable arrival experience and with events on every day of the week there is plenty to choose from. At the end of the workshop, groups are encouraged to make full use of the visitor centre, a knowledge bank of what to do and where to go in Britain.
Jaco Coetzee, Manager of the Britain & London Visitor Centre, added: "Having the BritBound concession situated in the centre is a great fit. It is advantageous for us as when overseas visitors return home, they spread the word to friends and family who, in turn, might be thinking of visiting. Being based in such a central location with friendly staff who collectively speak over eleven languages, we are able to offer in depth advice about places to visit, experiences to try while in Britain and affordable holiday suggestions to suit every pocket."
A workshop attendee from Australia said: "I had arranged a Hit The Ground Running Package while overseas through my travel agent but I would certainly say I was expecting it to all to take longer than it has. I never thought I was going to receive so many fantastic maps and I am going to be a regular visitor to the centre now I know what’s there".
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
