Polioli

After 26 years of living in Australia, a marriage separation, an 8 year old son and an elderly mother in Eastbourne, I have more or less made up my mind to come home but it is so scary! I know nothing any more about how things work in the UK, can't even remember my NI number, how do I look for a job at the ripe old age of 52 with little training in anything? Where even to live? What about education for my son? For some strange reason, Chester sprung to mind, I have never been there in my life, but it seems like a nice place! I have been back quite a few times to see Mum since moving here back in 1978, and in particular the last 2 trips back have been fabulous, there seems to be such an optimism in England now that was never there before.

I will not be moving back immediately, probably in about 12 months time, lots of things to think about and sort out this end.I would be interesting in hearing from others who have also recently moved back, is it hard to re-adjust? Do you have any regrets?

Thanks

Poli

odaat

We moved back to UK in June of this year, wife + three children aged 7 +5+2.
We spent 6 yrs in Oz and 4 yrs in the Middle East before returning to UK.

Your intention to return should be based on 3 main factors
Single parent income support, employment options and education of your son.

UK really is a post code lottery, make plans to move to the post code that supports your specific needs.

Chester is a thriving area, good job prospects, good schools and excellent support needs for single parents.

I would suggest you move quicker rather than later - the 8 yr old will adapt to UK easier the younger he comes back - as we found with our 7 + 5 yr old.

areas to research : income support application process, school OFSTED results, healthcare locations , work options , housing.

At least you speak the language, know how to drive on the left and are still young enough to start again .... goodluck and keep us updated

CaliforniaBride

Try www.upmystreet.co.uk you'll find all the details you need on areas in the UK.

But to be honest, you sound as though you need plan in more detail. Take your time and don't make any rash decisiopns.

Btw, I emigrated to the US with an 8 year old son and he has adapted very well. I can talk you through the initial ropey period if you like.

simoneb03

I moved back with family from NZ to UK three years ago - only just getting settled. you need to do your homework, maybe visit first for as long as poss - xmas holidays?? Even though we visited every year, found that things had changed here more than we thought and quite hard.

JAJ

Have you got Australian citizenship? If the answer is no, you should sort this out before you even think about leaving.

If you lose your permanent resident status (which you will once you've lived in the UK a few years) you will probably not be able to return to Australia to live.

Jeremy