SWR Relocation Rules

[kajojek3232]

Hi,

This is a long shot but maybe someone can give me the answer to this.

This is all theoretical so bear with me. Let’s say I apply for a job with SWR as a depot driver. It’s based in Wimbledon but I live two hours away however they said they accept relocation.

My question is, would I have to relocate as soon as my course starts? Or would I be able to wait until handling hours start?

Basingstoke is a lot closer to where I currently live but I’m just trying to plan whether I’d need to move to London for the training and waste money on rent whilst only living there 2 days a week.

Any replies will be appreciated.

 

[Urban Gateline]

I think the main issue is the address you use in your application, they will use that to measure the commuting time so if you don't already have a place within the 45mins/1hr limit then I'd be surprised if they considered your application at all to be honest. It may depend on how many applicants they get for that role though!

They also ask for proof of address if you get past the interview stage so they take location quite seriously, for that sort of job I'd say it's well worth moving first to be in the right place and have a greater chance of being accepted, not sure how that fits around your current work though!

 

[kajojek3232]

So they said to me they do accept relocation. My problem is whether I’d need to relocate before my course starts or only before my handling hours start as the distance between the two is huge.

 

[NSEWonderer]

You'd most likely want a Hotel or short stay accommodation for the duration of said Course and then once contract is signed etc before your handling date have relocated. I assume you passed the recent apps?

 

[Craig Stephens]

You are expected to be within range after completion of your course at Basingstoke. I applied to Waterloo for a trainee driver position. I told them I had to relocate, and I was accepted. I lived in Essex and rented an apartment for the course in Basingstoke. When I passed I moved to Isleworth. Now a driver at Waterloo for SWR.

You are not offered a contract until you pass the course at the ROC(Basingstoke). That is when you are required to prove you live within 45 minutes. (Maybe be different time for other depots but 45 for Waterloo)

 

[Jlob2804]

Given the previous comment I'm not sure if this is helpful/conflicting info but I've been a Bournemouth driver since 2020. I lived near Uxbridge when I applied. In my DMI they said I just needed to provide a proof of address within 45mins of Bournemouth before the first day of my driver training course. It's probably the case that the above comment is what actually happens most the time and mine was just some special/annoying situation for whatever reason.