The children’s quality of life survey from Halifax has revealed the finest locations across Britain for families looking to bring up youngsters, with the leading contenders all situated within the same region.
Drawing on crucial elements including employment opportunities, property size, internet connectivity, traffic congestion, and even adult wellbeing reports, the study showed that the majority of premier locations were actually found in Scotland. Whilst the nation demonstrated remarkable performance, with entries appearing from both Northern and Southern England, the top three spots all belonged to Scotland.
It hardly comes as a shock, having maintained the leading position since 2015, that Scotland’s Orkney Islands are regarded as Britain’s finest family destination. The research highlighted Orkney’s impressive employment figures, coupled with its minimal crime statistics and elements such as outstanding examination performance and reduced primary school class numbers.
Discussing the 2019 findings, James Stockan, leader of Orkney Islands council said: “It’s very pleasing that Orkney has taken the crown for the best quality of life in the UK. It’s down not only to our environment but also to the people who live here, who combine a traditional sense of community with a forward-thinking, self-reliant, ambitious, can-do attitude that makes this a very special place to live and work,” The Guardian reports.
Located off Scotland’s northern coastline, the Orkney Islands boast stunning rural landscapes and panoramic ocean vistas, providing residents with an invigorating quality of life. Those who make their home in Orkney naturally embrace outdoor living, thanks to the expansive terrain that encourages lengthy rambles and swimming opportunities – from harbour settlements to underwater adventures and nature excursions.
Beyond its spectacular natural setting, the region possesses a fascinating heritage. Orkney is brimming with prehistoric landmarks accessible to visitors, including the World Heritage designation called the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Additional remarkably preserved locations feature Taversoe Tuick, a dual-level burial mound, alongside Midhowe Broch, an Iron Age fortified dwelling.
Russell Galley, managing director at Halifax, previously said about Orkney’s victory: “With strong education and employment levels, low crime rates and residents loving life, not to mention breathtaking wide open spaces, the Orkney Islands have retained the crown of Britain’s best rural place to live,” according to Relocate magazine.
He added: “The winning formula for quality of life in the countryside seems to consistently include high employment levels and top scores on wellbeing, along with low school class sizes and high average spend per pupil – more than twice the national average.”
Also making the top three list of the best quality of life for families in the UK was the Shetland Islands, also in Scotland. It’s believed that these isles have the highest employment rate in Great Britain, coming out significantly higher than average.
Joining it at number three is the Western Isles in Scotland, which in the last survey was revealed to have the highest personal wellbeing rating. This means the average of life satisfaction, wellness and happiness is at an exceeding level compared to other places on the list.
The top 10 list includes:
1. Orkney Islands, Scotland
2. Shetland Islands, Scotland
3. Western Isles, Scotland
4. Hambleton, North Yorkshire
5. South Oxfordshire
6. Ribble Valley, Yorkshire
7. West Somerset.
8. Mole Valley, Surrey.
9. Chilterns.
10. West Oxfordshire.
