Hi All

Just an update as I have returned to the UK earlier than expected as I got an interview in the NHS. However, (and I cant believe I am saying this) maybe it is not the right thing for me atm. Pleased to see my ageing parents but they are set in their ways and I dont have any friends here anymore (although I was hoping to make some at a new job here). I knew I would miss the blue sky etc but as I cant afford to live in the lovely areas of Oxford or Canterbury atm, its quite depressing for me. Also the salaries are sooo low (less than half via conversion) that I dont know if its worth it at least for the next couple of years. In my field, the UK is quite ageist so that peevs me off too as I think my experience is a lot better for the jobs I have applied for. The women who interviewed me where quite personal with their questions and not particularly nice. I have also found there really is a lot more people than I remembered 10 years ago, although didnt notice them so much when I was on holiday last year.

On the plus side, the TV is ace and lovely to go to Sainsburys/Tesco/Asda etc. I think I am going to try and get back to OZ at least for a few years as I dont see why I should struggle money wise and at least have a lot more when I more back in a couple of years or so. It has really made me a lot happier and means I might be able to live in those nice areas when I get back.

Good luck to everyone going back.

Hi we have also returned from nz to Oxford give it some time I think NZ has yet to go through a recession also oz so take time to think the $ can not stay this strong forever ab
And an overheating housing market does not help pm I you want to chat
Jane

Hiya

Have sent you a message was wondering where you were

Sorry to hear it's not going as planned could you not get another role there?

Thanks Georgina and Jane. Yes I am looking for other posts and I really should stay here as at my age (48) its best not to move around now. It might be better to just get a much lower than expected role and work up to at least one promotion in the next few years. Thanks for your input!

Sorry to hear that it's not going the way you hoped it would. But give it some time...you literally just got off the plane. My parents did that when they went back to England. My Dad said as they were walking down the ramp 'I think we've made a mistake'. Sufficed to say my Mum wanted to kill him then and there...LOL.

I always find it best not to compare what you were earning in one oucountry, to what you're getting in another. The cost of living will be different and it usually (note I say usually) works out even in the end. Even if the job 'seems' low paying, but it's something you like, then at least you have your foot in the door and you can work your way up from there. At least you're earning a wage, and so long as you can afford your rent etc etc, it's all a step in the right direction. Go out, join clubs, make friends and pretty soon you'll know whether you made the right choice or not.

Remember to breathe... lol Take it one day at a time, and see how you feel in a year.

Good Advice. I know I should have stayed longer than I did. So many emotions that I did not expect. In hindsight I should have stayed. Would have if it was only me to consider.