Top Links
Leaving Home
Almost everybody leaves home at some point. It may be you’re leaving to go away to study or travel. Or you’ve met someone special or you’re earning and feel ready for more independence.
For many there are pluses and minuses – sense of freedom, able to do your own thing, do things when it suits you. But you will also have to take care of the bills, cooking, washing and housework. And do your studies or go to work as well! How are you supposed to fit in a life with all that – so much for the freedom…
Most people manage fine. But some will find it hard because they can’t find anywhere or it all costs too much.
Thinking of leaving home because it’s all getting a bit much?
The local council may have a young people’s housing officer who can talk through your options and help you reach the best decision. It’s always better to plan ahead, find out what’s available and then at least you know what your options are. You could try involving someone from outside your immediate family to help you and your parent(s) sort things outs.
What happens when you HAVE to leave home?
If leaving home is not a happy occasion – maybe you’ve been kicked out or you’re leaving for your personal safety – it’s a very different situation.
It may not have been planned, so you might not have anywhere to go. You may not have any money. No money and no place to stay makes you very vulnerable.
In an emergency, try and stay with another relative or friend. Don’t sleep on the streets.
Call Childline on 0800 1111 if you are under 16, and Shelter on 0808 800 4444 if you are over 16.
Young people aged 16-18 may be able to get benefit in this situation but you will need to explain what has happened. You will need to go to the local council’s housing office to make a homeless application. They may have a young person’s housing officer who may be able to help you.
If you are under 16 Children’s Services (Social Services) will help you. Sometimes they will say the best thing is for you to go home, though it might not seem like that to you. They may reach the decision that the situation at home will blow over or help you to sort out another family member that you can stay with. They will only take you into care if they assess this is absolutely necessary.
Shelter
Shelter is an organisation that offers independent housing advice. They produce a number of leaflets around housing issues.
Shelter 0845 458 4590
Sept 2009
Posted on 02 October 2009
