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Leaving home

Leaving home can be both an exciting and scary event. Many young people are able to plan when they leave and can prepare the things they need, whereas others leave home quickly without much time to think.

Think about why you want to leave home

Living on your own or in a shared house is not always easy. If you're thinking of leaving home because of an argument with your family, see if you can talk about it and come to a compromise which makes living together easier. If you have to leave home, try to give yourself as much time as possible to think about:

• Where you're going to live.
• How much it will cost and how you will pay for it.
• How much money you'll have left after paying the rent to pay bills, to buy food and go out with friends.

Our How to live away from home leaflet contains advice on living independently - choosing accommodation, money matters, food shopping and cooking.

When can I leave home?

If you're under 16 you can't normally leave home unless there is a serious problem like violence or abuse. If this is the case for you, contact Social Services or your personal adviser immediately.

If you're 16 or 17 you can move out if your parents or guardians agree to it. If they don't agree to you leaving but you feel that you cannot stay, talk to your personal adviser about the reasons and they'll be able to advise you about the best thing to do.

If you're 18 or over you can leave home without anyone's permission. Leaving home can give you freedom, independence and control.

BUT

Leaving home can also leave you feeling lonely, in debt and overwhelmed - so think carefully before you act.

Runaway Helpline

Runaway Helpline is a national, free, confidential service, provided by the charity Missing People, for anyone who has run away from home or care, or been forced to leave home.

Whether you have run away from home because of an argument, bullying, abuse or you're unhappy, Runaway Helpline is there for you day or night. Call them on 0808 800 70 70, text them on 80234, or email them.

If you're over 18 you can contact Missing People's Message Home service. You can call free 0800 700 740 or email them.

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