Anyone live on a remote Scottish island by any chance?

[Gillian76]

DH is considering applying for a job in the Outer Hebrides.

In actual fact he used to live there pre-marriage and kids and loved it. He is applying to the same school he worked in before but in a more senior position.

Part of me thinks it will be a fantastic opportunity and for the children (schooling, safety, etc) I think it would be a great move.

I am worried about the practicalities however. Does anyone have experience of living on an island?

OK the application is in. Just have to wait and see now... :)

No I dont but it would suit me

Booge! Wonder if I know you.... I'm from IOS.

Gillian - go for it - I had a fantastic upbringing on a small island and would love to take my children home to live (can't persuade dh though )

Dinny, I was on Tresco, knew people on Bryher and St Martins mainly and a few on St Mary's

Gilian76, some friends of ours moved to shetland 8 years ago and absolutely love it. They have active social life, seem to actually have access to lots of good fcitilites, they have disabled child and get fantastic support, kids do lots acivities. They really haven't looked back. good luck with the application.

Hi Gillian. Good luck. Most of what I think has already been said on here. Not on an island but pretty remote. With the internet you don't need to miss out on shopping - you just learn to do things differently. You will save money from not blowing it on silly things and travel away will become a real treat even if it is expensive. If your kids are geared up to that kind of life it can be great for them and its certainly not isolating - people are usually a lot more open. I would feel much more isolated in a city or town.

The important thing to remember is that you don't need to make a commitment for ever. Whatever you decide you are entitled to change your mind once you've given it a go. But I think its well worth giving it a go. It sounds as though you have thought of most things and you'd be amazed at how many visitors you get if you end up in a lovely place. You make sure you can accommodate everyone! Sometimes you can see less of a family that lives just down the road because its too easy!

Good luck anyway :)

i think i can guess which island you are thinking of moving to. My family are from up there and i spend a lot of time there too. Not so much now though Jobs are fairly easy to come by, esp in summer months, food is fairly varied and you san get take aways from most of the hotels, no home delivery. on line shopping is an option but a trip to the main land is more fun. winter can be hard. You're kids will love it and so will you I'm sure. Don't be a wall flower, get out and about and get involved in island life, it can get lonley but as i say make you're self known easier with the kids, playgroups, school, church etc. do you drive?

Thanks for bringing this up again. We are still waiting to hear whether he will be interviewed but hoping it will be any day now.

I find myself wanting it more and more. Just hope we're not disappointed!