All photos: Ketut Subiyanto
Thinking of moving house soon? If so, you’re not alone: at least 420,000 households wanted to move somewhere else in the UK last summer. With so many towns, cities, and villages promising bountiful opportunities for homeowners and their families, it’s worth exploring new horizons.
Whether your move is already confirmed or you’re planning ahead for the big day, here are some of the most important things to do once you arrive in your new neighborhood.
#1. Check the local amenities:
Nearby shops and other key facilities make a huge difference when it comes to settling down smoothly. Before you move, take some time to familiarise yourself with everything on offer nearby. Check for:
- Supermarkets: Does your new local area have the best shops for your grocery needs? If you can’t find your favorite supermarket nearby, it’s worth checking if they can deliver to your new postcode.
- Parks: Are there any green spaces nearby where you can relax, exercise, or enjoy nature? Consider the size, amenities (playgrounds, dog parks, walking trails), and accessibility of nearby parks. If you have pets, be sure to look for pet-friendly areas and playgrounds.
- Healthcare: Whether you typically use NHS or private healthcare facilities, you’ll need to make sure that you can access treatment from your new home. Consider access to emergency departments too.
- Schools: Educational opportunities are critical for families moving into new homes. You can check Ofsted reports online to find top-rated schools within commuting distance from your new home.
- Public transport links: Understanding the proximity and availability of these essential services will help you to adapt more comfortably to your new environment.
#2. Update all your essential documents:
You’ll need to make sure that all your personal records reflect your new address. This includes taking time to update your home insurance policy to cover your new residence, along with notifying your banks, utility providers, and the electoral register. The latter could even improve your credit score.
Keeping your information current means you won’t miss any important correspondence, helping you to maintain legal compliance.
#3. Explore the neighborhood:
It’s important to spend time alone or with your household in your new area too. Exploring together could make a wonderful way to make new memories as you settle in and recover from the stress of moving.
Take time to walk or cycle around your new area to discover parks, restaurants, shops, and other points of interest. After getting to know your surroundings, you could discover hidden gems that enhance your living experience. Whether it’s a sunny park bench or an independent brewery, your favorite places will soon start to feel like home.
#4. Engage with the community:
Building connections with your neighbors could help you and your family to foster a sense of belonging and security.
Once you’ve taken some time to unpack and get comfortable, you could consider participating in upcoming events or volunteering to support an important local cause. Joining active community groups will give you a sense of identity too.
By finding an activity you enjoy, you’ll naturally find opportunities to meet new people and integrate into the community.
#5. Stay informed about key developments:
Finally, keeping ahead of local news and developments helps you stay connected and make sure that your voice is heard. Community projects and meetings make a useful starting point, especially with the arrival of new housing developments.
Subscribe to local newspapers, join community social media groups, and attend council meetings to contribute whenever possible. If you’re interested in upcoming healthcare facilities, the NHS Confederation regularly updates on developments in health and social care.
Concluding...
By taking these initial steps with intention and diving into your new surroundings, you're not just moving to a new place – you're planting the seeds for a fulfilling chapter. Imagine discovering hidden local gems, forging connections with neighbors at community events, and truly feeling at home. So go ahead, be curious, be open, and embrace the adventure of becoming a happy and valued part of your vibrant new community.
