Leaving Home

The info on this page will get you thinking about what is involved with leaving home.

See also Housing on this website.

The Law

Under 16

If you leave home and are seen to be at risk, you could be returned home. If that is not possible, social services are responsible for helping you.

If you have problems at home, talk to someone you trust and get advice and help. You could ring ChildLine on freephone 0800 1111.

Aged 16 or 17

You must have your parents or guardians consent to leave home, unless you are married. However, it is very unusual for the police or social services to get involved if someone aged 16/17 leaves home without their parents’ agreement.

Aged 18 or Over

You may leave home whenever you want.

What things should I do before leaving home?

1. Make a list of the good point and bad points of leaving home
2. Find out how much it costs to rent or buy in the area you want to live, and whether you need a deposit
3. Work out ALL of the costs – see Can you afford it? in this section
4. Think about how you will move your things to your new place
5. Find out about your housing options by going to an advice agency. See Housing contacts.
6. Think about how you will feel when you leave home
7. Discuss all of the above with a friend, an advice agency, your family, your social worker or someone you trust
8. Begin collecting household items

Choosing a place and moving in

Leaving home can give you more freedom and space, but it might bring problems. Some young people end up in debt or unhappy where they are living because it’s not always easy to find a good place or not as enjoyable as they thought.

Before you move, think about these things:

• Is there public transport nearby – especially at night?
• Is your home close to a bus stop?
• Do you want to live close to your friends and family?
• Can you afford the rent?
• Does the rent include heating costs?
• Will you feel safe in the area at night?
• Is there a launderette nearby?
• Does the landlord allow you to keep pets?
• Who is responsible for repairs when things go wrong?
• Do you need to insure the contents of your home?
• Do you need a deposit and rent in advance?
• Take a friend with you when you look at a new place

Always read electricity and gas meters when you move into a new home.

Remember – if something goes wrong there are agencies that can you give you free, confidential advice. See Housing contacts.