I DON’T WANT TO MOVE FROM HOME

Dear Coleen

I AM a 24-year-old man and currently unemployed, although I volunteer with the charity Mencap. I really enjoy doing it and it’s also how I met my girlfriend.

My problem is, I live with my parents and they’ve told me they want to relocate 100 miles away from where we live, and I don’t want to go with them.

I wouldn’t mind moving a little outside our hometown, especially if I had a better chance of finding work – but my life is here. I don’t know what to do – any advice?

Coleen says

FIRST of all, hats off to you for volunteering. I think it’s a great way to stay engaged with the world, learn new skills and meet people while you’re job hunting. And, of course, you’re giving back to the community.

I imagine you’re living with your folks for financial reasons, so if you don’t want to relocate with them, then have a conversation and tell them you’d like to find a way to stay. They might have some suggestions but the important thing is to start the discussion and share your thoughts and fears.

Maybe this situation will give you the extra push you need to earn some money doing any job, so you can stay where you are.

It might not be your dream choice or even pay very much but it’ll get you on the earning ladder and might lead to something else. If you have the cushion of your parents, it’s easier to turn jobs down that aren’t exactly what you want.

If you really don’t want to move and prefer to stay near your girlfriend, then make it your mission to find a way to make it happen.