When Divorce Changes Everything: British Expats in Spain Considering a Return to the UK

trishadando
3 days ago
3 min read

For many British expats, moving to Spain once symbolized a fresh start. Sunshine, a slower pace of life, and the hope that life might feel easier. Often, that move was shared—a relationship woven into the dream.

But when divorce enters the picture, everything can change.

If you’re living in Spain and going through a divorce, you may find yourself asking a question you never expected:

“Is it time to go back to the UK?”

Divorce Abroad Can Feel Deeply Isolating

Divorce is hard anywhere. Experiencing it in another country can intensify the emotional weight.

You may be dealing with:

Limited emotional support nearby
Legal and financial systems that feel unfamiliar
Language barriers at a time when clarity matters most
The loss of identity that came with being an “expat couple”
Distance from family just when you need them

What once felt like freedom can suddenly feel very far from home.

Why the Pull to Return to the UK Often Follows Divorce

After divorce, priorities often shift—sometimes overnight.

Many British expats begin to crave:

Familiarity and emotional safety
Being understood without explanation
Proximity to family, grandchildren, or aging parents
Cultural ease during a vulnerable time
A sense of grounding while rebuilding life

The UK may not be perfect, but it can represent stability and support when everything else feels uncertain.

At the same time, leaving Spain can bring guilt and grief. You may worry that returning means you’ve failed, or that you’re giving something up. These mixed emotions are completely normal.

The Emotional Tug-of-War No One Talks About

You might feel relief imagining being closer to loved ones—alongside sadness for the chapter you’re closing. You may worry about finances, housing, or starting again later in life. And you may feel pressure to decide quickly, even though your emotions are still raw.

This inner conflict is exhausting. And it’s exactly where the right kind of support matters.

How a Divorce Coach Can Support You—Emotionally and Practically

A divorce coach focuses on you—not just the paperwork.

At New Dawn Divorce and Break Up Coaching, we support British expats across Spain who are navigating divorce and complex decisions about whether to return to the UK.

We are fully bilingual, speaking English and Spanish, which can be a huge relief when you’re dealing with emotionally charged conversations and unfamiliar systems. We also have trusted connections with local lawyers in the Javea area, helping you feel supported rather than overwhelmed.

As divorce coaches, we help you:

Process grief, fear, guilt, anger, and relief—without judgment
Separate emotional overwhelm from clear decision-making
Explore whether returning to the UK truly aligns with your needs
Prepare emotionally for relocation and major life changes
Understand financial implications calmly and confidently
Communicate more effectively with legal professionals

Our role is to help you move forward intentionally, not reactively.

Legal Support on Both Sides of the Move

For those considering a return to the UK, having experienced legal guidance there is just as important.

Through our network, we also connect clients with Penny Raby & Co, highly experienced family lawyers with over 40 years’ experience and expert knowledge of expat and international divorce situations.

This continuity of support—both in Spain and the UK—can make a world of difference, helping you feel protected, informed, and confident as you plan your next steps.

Returning to the UK Isn’t Going Backwards

Choosing to return to the UK after divorce is not a failure.

It can be:

An act of self-care
A step toward emotional safety
A way of rebuilding with support around you

Spain may always be part of your story. That doesn’t disappear. But it doesn’t have to define your next chapter.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Divorce already asks so much of you. Managing it across borders—emotionally, legally, and financially—can feel overwhelming without support.

Whether you ultimately stay in Spain or return to the UK, you deserve:

Space to think clearly
Support in your own language
Guidance from people who understand expat life
Help making decisions that protect both your heart and your future

A Personal Invitation

If you’re a British expat in Spain facing divorce and wondering whether returning to the UK is right for you, we invite you to reach out to New Dawn Divorce and Break Up Coaching.

We offer: