1simon1

Hi, Thanks for all your advise! I've been in France over the summer holidays so have missed all the replies.  It seems like there has been a real mixed response to moving to France from you all.  I am  realistic about the fact that we need to earn a crust, which is why I voiced my concerns in the first place.  After reading everyone's advise though, I can't say I have been put off.  I suppose I am going with an open mind - if we cannot make it work (financially) then we will have to return, but we will give it at least 18 months for a fair trial.  When we were out this summer we made enquiries reg; Simon and work availability.  I am glad to say there is plenty for all, albeit with the English projects.  As long as it's money it will do.  I haven't ruled out some earlier advise of chippy's mate, although the Hot-Tub sales person is a big no no, thanks but no thanks.  I did discover a big gap in the area, plumbers! I have looked into courses but they are all about 2 years+ and I only have 6 months to go...any ideas out there?   I also registered myself for an art exhabition next June - just for the crack! Who knows where things could go....miracles can happen!  I have qualified as a risk assessor since my last posting, only level2 but it might come in handy if I can get into care over there.  I have a few more avenues to explore before we go and I'll keep you posted. Thanks to Norman too, I'll be looking into the web sites you gave me. In the mean time thanks again, it was reassuring and interesting to read what you all had to say. Rachel

 Hi to everyone. I am wifie of the above carpenter/HGV man moving out to Limousin in Feb '07. Everyone is really excited that we are having a go but the question always comes up....What will you do for a living? and yes, I make it up and make it sound so easy!  The truth is I haven't the foggiest.  I am a qualified fashion designer - although I retired to be mum about 7 years ago,  I can draw but I guess lots  dream of becoming a painter and making enough money to buy the odd baguette.  I work part time as a carer with Leonard Cheshire homes, for people with disabilities, which are international but not near where we will be!!  My language is basic GCSE with a Micheal Thomas top up but not ready for full on conversation yet.   I need to know what chances I have of being able to work as a carer with only a little language (even though it happens over here - I guess  I find it a little odd). Are there any qualifications I can persue in the next 6 months that will help me  to secure a job, apart from the language which I am still trying hard with? Any bright ideas welcome, otherwise I stay at home and make bread and jam between milking a goat and squeezing a chicken! Ta Rachel.[8-)]

Thank you all for some great advice. I think I must have more faith in myself being able to earn a crust as a wood butcher and leave the HGV thing for someone else! I don't have a mortgage out in france so I hope I may be able to make ends meet. Chris, I will be in touch. thank you.

Ok then, anyone want a door hanging ?

I will be moving to the Limousin area in Feb 2007. I am a carpenter from the building industry and this will be my main source of work (hopefully). I am considering taking my HGV  in England and using it in France as a possible alternative income. Am I correct in believing that this is a european license?. Will I need to take further tests to be able to drive over there?. I am far from fluent in the language but I am trying very hard to learn. I am wary of setting up shop as an Artisan and then not being able to use the HGV qualification.

 Bit like an ashtray on a motorbike.