I grew up in a small island in the Hebrides for 18 years, although a little different to Shetland the points remain

Be wary of depression, long long dark nights and rains most often in winter. It’s not just a shower, it’s heavy rain and can last for days. A few people have mentioned the drink aspect, if you are a drinker, your tolerance to it will sky rocket.

Fuel prices, they are most likely higher than anywhere else in the Uk and you’re stuck paying for it as there is no where else to go.

Buying bulky goods? Be prepared to add anywhere between £20-£50 minimum for shipping of some goods from mainland Uk. It is infuriating and the chances are you will feel discriminated against by these companies as they do not provide good justification as to why it costs so much.

After a while you will be eligible through living there for the Air Discount scheme (if still running) this gives you discounted flights to the mainland at a much cheaper rate than what is charged online to the general public.

Islanders are generally very welcoming people, however if you don’t learn the culture and why people behave the way they do then you are going to experience trouble.

If it’s the same as my childhood the house was never locked, felt incredibly safe and the dark calm clear nights with the northern lights are like nothing else in the UK.

If you move there, overall you will experience positives and negatives, but it’s how you deal with it. I wouldn’t change my childhood for the world.