Housing Options

Unless you need to leave home urgently, it is better to take your time in reaching a decision.

Renting privately

Good, reasonably-priced accommodation can be hard to find. Look at accommodation adverts to get an idea of what's out there and where it's located. It's important to check out a new area carefully before you make any decisions.

• You'll usually need to sign a 'tenancy agreement' covering rent, your obligations, minimum length of stay and rules (such as no smoking).
• If you're 16 or 17 - unless you're sharing with someone 18 or over - it is practically impossible to rent private accommodation because you probably won't be able to get a tenancy agreement (the law is unclear).
• NB. There are often additional 'set up' fees involved like deposits, rents in advance and agents fees before you get the keys

Living with friends - or strangers

Living with other people isn't always straightforward. Having a list of 'rules' that you try to stick to, can sometimes be helpful.

Renting from the public sector

Some of the public sector options offer support and advice which will help you gain independent living skills.

• Foyers: offer support, housing and, often,  education/training for young people.
• Supported Housing projects: these are shared houses in all areas of the county and range from low level support to high support depending on what you need.
• Your local council can also help - see links in the blue box.

Finances 

• You'll often be asked for money in advance - always get a receipt
• Help might be available to contribute to the cost of your accommodation (such as housing benefit, income support or jobseeker's allowance).

Finding out more

More information on these and other options (including buying your own property) is on TheSite. You could also talk to friends and family about their own experiences of moving away.

Contact Gloucestershire Youth Support Team for advice and support, call them on 01452 551276