I would like advice on renting a flat from a private landlord? Will I need references, etc?

I currently rent from a housing association and would like to move into private accommodation, but am unsure of the process. Will I need references (and who from?), also I have a bad credit history so need to know if a private landlord or letting agent would credit check, and does it matter that I haven't been in my current job for very long? I also would like to know how much of a deposit private landlords usually ask for.I would like advice on renting a flat from a private landlord? Will I need references, etc?
You will need references.