Settling In: A Guide for Yoruba Families New to Hull

Moving to a new city is never easy especially when you’re also navigating a new country, new systems, and sometimes a new language of paperwork. If you’re a Yoruba family new to Hull & East Riding, this guide covers the practical first steps, along with how Yoruba Community Hull can support you along the way.

1. Registering With a GP

One of the first things to sort out is registering with a local GP (doctor’s surgery). You don’t need proof of address or immigration status to register every practice in the UK is required to accept new patients from its catchment area regardless of documentation. If you’re unsure which surgery covers your postcode, the NHS website has a simple search tool, or you can ask us directly and we’ll point you in the right direction.

2. School Registration

If you have children of school age, contact Hull City Council’s admissions team as early as possible school places, especially in popular areas, can take a few weeks to confirm. Bring your child’s birth certificate and proof of address if you have it, though most councils will still process an application even if some documents are still being sorted out.

3. Housing and Council Tax

Whether you’re renting privately or through social housing, make sure to register for council tax as soon as you move in delays can lead to backdated bills that are harder to manage. If you’re struggling with housing costs or facing uncertainty about your tenancy, this is exactly the kind of situation our welfare support programme exists for  reach out and we can point you toward the right local services.

4. Opening a Bank Account

Most UK banks will ask for proof of address and ID. If you’re newly arrived and don’t yet have a utility bill in your name, some banks accept a letter from your employer, landlord, or a recognised community organisation. This is one of the more common questions we get asked, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re stuck.

5. Finding Community

Paperwork aside, one of the hardest parts of relocating is simply not knowing anyone. This is where Yoruba Community Hull hopes to make the biggest difference. We meet regularly on Saturdays at our Community Hall on Beverley Road, and our WhatsApp groups are a good way to ask quick questions, find recommendations, or simply feel less alone in a new city.

6. Yoruba Language Classes for Children

If you’re worried about your children losing touch with the Yoruba language while growing up in the UK, our weekly language classes (ages 6–12, Saturdays at 10am) are specifically designed for exactly this. It’s free for members and a small fee for guests and it doubles as a chance for your children to make friends with other Yoruba families in the area.

We’re Here to Help

Every family’s situation is different, and this guide can’t cover everything. If you have a specific question about schools, housing, healthcare, or anything else get in touch through our Contact page and we’ll do our best to help directly or point you to someone who can.

Welcome to Hull. We’re glad you’re here.