Relocation Process, Housing Provisions, Transportation
The first step of relocation is the recruitment process. Once you have been recruited for a position that determines whether you are employed as a resident or rotational staff in Guyana, the relocation process that follows begins with determining the necessary documents that are needed for a smooth, hassle-free entry into the country. The first step of this process is acquiring a VISA, work permit and gathering all the relevant identification documents. Once these items are secured, our Human Resource Department will make contact with you to determine your needs ahead of a Needs Assessment that is conducted to ascertain your needs when relocating, such as housing or similar accommodations for a single person or a family.
Key Considerations for Accommodations
When choosing accommodations for residents with a family, there are key prerequisite requirements the company considers for your safety and comfort.
These include:
• The location of your new accommodation
• The type of property that is considered during this process
• Availability of Amenities
• Security and Recreation Facilities
Location
The company ensures that the location of your new accommodation is in a centralised area where all amenities are easily accessible. When stationed at the Sheriff Street Head Office, the accommodation is usually in Georgetown. For staff who are placed at the warehouse on the East Bank of Demerara, accommodations on the East Bank are preferred, for example, in the community of Windsor Forest.
The properties selected come with all modern amenities for a family with three children. All expenses are usually covered by SBM. A needs assessment is conducted to identify a suitable accommodation to match employee needs. Some of the services which are also provided and paid for by SBM are, housekeeping, security, and maintenance of the properties. Currently, there are three SBM locations. These are Coconut Grove in Ogle, Pear Tree Apartments in Subryanville, and Kings Hotel. All properties include basic amenities such as laundry areas, kitchens, and 10 hours of paid housekeeping services and maintenance. There are also full recreation spaces such as gyms, pools, and play areas for children based on your needs. 24-hour security surveillance is also provided. The company ensures that the homeowners whose properties are being rented are good, credible and that all modern amenities needed are provided.
Vehicular Provisions
Transportation is provided by the company and is available for residents and expats. A vehicle is assigned Monday to Saturday during the period 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM for expats and their families for school trips, shopping and other needs they may have during these hours. A shuttle service is also available for Sundays and holidays, with a WhatsApp group available to make bookings. Based on the size of the family, a Sedan or an SUV will be assigned.
Vehicles are leased by SBM from a transportation provider for rotation employees while residents enjoy access to a full service.
Education
In terms of schooling for the expat’s children, two main schools are utilized. These are the Georgetown International Academy (GIA) and the School of Nations. The company will cover school fees for children above 3 years old, up to 18 years old. These ‘fees’ are tuition and facility fees. The company provides support in areas of enrolment, registration, provision of school schedule and acceptance fees. Extracurricular activities, books, stationery, and uniforms are not covered by the company.
There are also the benefits for expats to acquire a private tutor to assist in language barriers. This cost is also covered by SBM. Support and guidance are also given for setting up bank accounts.