tea4too

@Cheery Thistle The issues you raise are worthy of debate however, while all opinions are valid, reflecting that people happily living in the UK are in denial because they don't share your view is questionable and more likely to push the thread further off track, rather than supporting those 'expats using this part of the forum to discuss the move back.' Perhaps a separate thread in Chewing the Fat would be more appropriate? Either way, as I'm not sure I can add much to the practical advice and support already provided I wish the OP well, and will leave it at that. T x

Who wouldn't? We're posting in MBTTUK, a small section of the forum designed to support those thinking of returning. It was reading negativity about life in the UK that prompted me to join PIO more than a decade ago because I didn't recognise the desperate, gloomy, dispirited place regularly described then, and I don't now tbh. It's right to acknowledge the huge social issues impacting the UK, but it's just as important in my view to acknowledge that many continue to live a relatively comfortable and happy life in a place they are content to call home. I get that planning a new life on the other side of the world might bring into sharp focus negative aspects of the life being left behind, but not everyone is going to share those opinions, or accept that life in every part of the UK is directly comparable. T x

Without doubt life is a struggle for many in the UK just now as the country continues to navigate the economic legacy of covid lockdowns, Brexit and years of austerity policies delivered by successive tory governments. The media is full of stories warning of high interest rates, redundancies, an increase in homelessness and an NHS buckling under the strain. So it would be unrealistic to pretend there is no direct impact on society or individuals and I understand why those looking to emigrate do so in the hope of a better quality of life. But, for all its problems, the UK is still a first world country and the entire UK is not labouring under a constant cloud of despair. Personally we are happy here, our family are settled and making their way in life just as we did at their age, carefully navigating the cyclical ups and downs of economic downturns. If contemplating a MBTTUK my advice would be to choose your area carefully and be thorough with your research, because if you get it right it is still possible to have a good life here. T x

To some extent it depends where the OP (or anyone thinking of MBTTUK) will be living, as devolved governments often operate differently, and even some local authorities will provide support or access to schemes not available in neighbouring postcodes. As a starting point the UK Government website is a mine of information and a useful tool as it helpfully sign posts alternative advice for people living in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. T x

Also, if you haven't already, check airline policies regarding flights and pregnancy, a quick look suggests few issues up to 28 weeks, a medical certificate 28-32 weeks and a reluctance to facilitate travel after 32 weeks. The UK benefit system is notoriously complex but the government benefit checker might help. Check out the 'habitual residency test' too. www.gov.uk/check-benefits-financial-support It varies but rental property in the UK can be difficult to secure in many places. 'Rightmove' will help provide an insight into what is currently available in your preferred area, the prices, deposit and such like. Managed tenancies tend to use checking services that require verification of income, savings, credit score and possibly references or a named guarantor. On a more general note, while I understand your reasons for postponing any relocation until later in the pregnancy I can't help but think you are contemplating some huge changes at a time when you a likely to be both physically and emotionally vulnerable. Take care of yourself, involve trusted friends and family to make enquiries and manage practicalities where possible. And lists...I am a great one for lists, if only for the boost of crossing things off. T x

Call makes a valid point. 'From' 2023 would imply a general policy of no charges however, 'for' 2023 is not so clear cut and could equally mean things are open to review in subsequent years. T x

I too struggle with this. Irrespective of an individual's view on migration policy it is not ok, in any circumstances, to use vulnerable and potentially traumatised children to score cheap political points. Democratic governments act, or should act, in the name of the electorate and there is something really worrying about the state of things if a senior government minister genuinely believes that this is the way to go. Tx

A cross party committee investigates allegations, publishes their conclusion and recommendations, and refers the matter to parliament. MPs get to vote on a motion to accept the report and recommendations or not. If the House votes to suspend (any MP) for 10 days or more a recall petition is triggered in the constituency, with at least 10% required to sign it before a by-election can be called. Ultimately the constituency electorate would have the final say when they cast their vote. That all seems pretty democratic to me, and a good example of "governance by the people through elected representatives, with common people considered as the primary source of political power". Tx

Did he need to meet Meghan to do any of that? Not really. Did he need to meet someone he loved and respected enough to gamble his position and place in the family? Very possibly, in which case he could have stepped back, produced a documentary, wrote a book and moved anywhere in the world with his wife, be that Meghan or whoever he chose to marry. But we live in a fast news society where celebrity sells and we are regularly provided with heroes and villains because those are the stories make the most money, especially when sprinkled with glamour and wealth. Not so long ago it was Diana and Camilla, now it's Kate and Meghan. Whether we can trust the constant drip of negative headlines and spin is debatable, if only because it seems that the narrative can turn on the spin of a coin. T x

I think one of the great things about this forum is the fact that so many posters have stuck around for so many years, offering advice and opinions based not only on their own life experience but on information shared by and with other posters. And when it comes to the emotional aspect of migration all sorts of thoughts and feelings are explored and shared in Aussie and UK Chat threads. People can read, skip, ponder or ignore that stuff, but in reality those of us that have been part of the forum for a long time know that while some doubts are probably just a wobble, other worries could be key issues the poster would be well advised to weigh and consider carefully. Migration is not an an exact science, as demonstrated by the fact that while life is truthfully very grim for many in the UK just now, other people such as the OP live in a nice place, with a decent income and a network of good friends. Gambling all of that to move from one first world country to another is a big decision and one that is hopefully helped by the shared thoughts and experiences of others. Particularly those who have been there/ done it. Tx

Some 650,000 residents of Wales were born in England with nearly a quarter of that number having retired here, and research indicates that it was largely the border towns and areas with significant English born communities that recorded a higher level of leave votes. On the other hand, rural Welsh speaking areas showed a high level of support for remaining in the EU. It was just 82,000 votes that tipped Wales in favour of Brexit and there is a definite school of thought to suggest those with the most to lose, including farmers, knew that and voted accordingly. Tx

I guess it's almost impossible to always ensure everyone is fully informed and aware of options for registering views Rally, but there was quite a bit of engagement and publicity over a considerable period of time. Even the BBC did a feature on the 2021 pilot areas, which included one in Flintshire. But it's not a blanket 20mph and it's up to local authorities to identify relevant roads using the criteria "are there significant numbers (or potential numbers, if speeds were lower) of pedestrians and cyclists travelling along or across the road?" If the answer is No, current speed limits will continue to apply in most areas. If Councils makes a mess of it I guess the ballot box will provide another opportunity for people to make their voices heard. T x

Welsh Government did quite a bit of research and consultation in relation to the proposed 20 mph speed limits in residential and built up areas. A debate in the Senedd gained cross party support and led to a public opinion survey, an online public consultation and focus group research in the proposed pilot areas. A detailed analysis of the consultation replies was also posted on the government website. T x

Pob, many recent migrants seem to struggle with their first Christmas in Australia as familiar lifelong traditions don't quite fit with the new environment. In time you will find new traditions, little things that are more geared to the new life you and your family share on the other side of the world. In the meantime you are creating memories that you will one day look back on and laugh at - you've made a start with turkey stuffing! Enjoy the journey. T x

Between loved ones, or in a formal setting such as school or the workplace, it may well be delivered and received as supportive and useful feedback. But on a public forum among strangers it is perhaps more likely to come across as unnecessary criticism, rather than one filled with bonhomie, tbh. Tx