REVEALED: The best places to raise a family

Deciding to settle down and start a family is one of the most important decisions anyone can make.

But choosing WHERE to do this is, according to new research, just as important.

A networking group for expats have conducted a survey, in a bid to work out the top 20 countries to raise a child in.

And, shockingly, the UK did not make the list.

Austria, whose social system is very supportive of parents, was ruled the best place to settle down.

This is likely due to the fact that the country offers parental leave once children are born, and all families receive “kindergeld”, a monthly allowance for childcare expenses until the child turns 18, ranging between 100 to 200 euros (£73-147).

Austria was followed by the likes of Finland, Israel, Poland, and Mexico.

The full list, according to InterNations, is as follows:

The United Kingdom, if you're wondering, came in at a measly 23rd place.

Are you shocked by the findings? And do you agree that the UK has some catching up to do in terms of the quality, cost and availability of childcare and education?

Let us know via Facebook or Twitter (@CloserOnline) now.