Jennifer Simpson of BBM Solicitors busts some myths about careers in the Highlands, painting a picture of the kind of work-life balance many of us can only dream of.
Why Caithness Offers the Perfect Work-Life Balance
In days gone by, Caithness and Sutherland struggled to attract people to key jobs because of our rural location, but I’m not at all surprised to see that changing now. Particularly since the pandemic, people have caught on to the importance of a work-life balance, and it’s exciting to welcome so many new faces to our beautiful corner of the world. If anyone wonders why a high-flying professional would want to move here I tell them, just look out the window.
Where else could you go for a walk at lunchtime and be surrounded by this kind of beauty? I can pop into the North Baths for a swim, or head to Ackergill or Reay beach for a stroll. Whether it’s the dark skies of winter or the colour and light of summer, you’re surrounded by nature at its best.
Finding Your Community in Caithness
I first came to Caithness because I’m horse-mad. Keeping horses in Edinburgh is a financial commitment beyond most mortgages, so when I had the chance to move north, I jumped at it. I settled in Halkirk – right in the middle of the horse world – and I felt at home almost immediately. There’s a brilliant equestrian community here. Whether you want to show, hack, or just enjoy a ride along the beach, it’s all here. That’s the thing about Caithness: if you come with a hobby or passion, you’ll find your people straight away.
How BBM Solicitors Proves You Can Work Remotely in Rural Scotland
I’ve been part of BBM Solicitors since its formation. When we set up the firm, our aim was to prove that you can live in the Highlands and still do high-value, high-interest work. We’re ranked alongside major Scottish firms in our specialisms, but we do it from Wick – and from a quality-of-life perspective, I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s a much more relaxing place to practise law. If I’m having a stressful day, I can walk down by the river or be swimming in the North Baths within minutes. This idea of getting ‘back to nature’ is trendy right now but we just take it for granted here because it’s always been part of our day-to-day life.
Family Life in the Highlands: A Safe and Welcoming Environment
It’s not just about work. My children have had an idyllic childhood here. They went to a wonderful village school where everyone knew everyone, and now my eldest is thriving at high school. They walk or cycle around the village, go to gymnastics and dance, play traditional music and perform at local events and shows. They’ve had access to everything I would have wanted for them, just in a more personal, community-minded way.
Community is one of the biggest advantages of living here. Every village has its own spirit – Halkirk has its gala, Highland Games, its scarecrow festival, its Christmas windows – and that sense of belonging runs deep. It’s friendly, it’s safe, and it’s a great environment for raising a family.
Top Reasons Professionals Are Moving to Caithness
People sometimes think moving here means slowing down or stepping back from your career, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. You can do meaningful, rewarding work while living somewhere that genuinely enriches your life.
For me, Caithness offers the best of both worlds: a fulfilling career, a welcoming community, and a stunning place to call home. And if you ever doubt that, just look out your window.
Ready to Start Your Highland Adventure?
Take the first step toward a career and lifestyle that truly inspire you. Contact the Live North team today for expert relocation advice, career opportunities, and insider tips on settling into the vibrant North Highland community. Your dream life is closer than you think, let’s make it happen!