Leaving Home

Whatever your age, leaving home for the first time is a big thing and, before the age of 18, your housing options are limited.

Possible reasons for wanting to leave

• Freedom - but it's not guaranteed.
• Educational or work reasons
• Not getting on with parents/carers - try talking to someone about it like another family member, friend or someone at school or college. You can also contact Childline on 0800 111 or Samaritans.

Cost

It's easy to  underestimate the amount of money involved. Think about

• Accomodation (a small flat could be £400 a month)
• Heating
• Water
• Food
• Council tax (if you're over 18)
• Phone
• Insurance

Other practicalities

• Learning how to cook and clean
• Getting on with your flatmates, landlord and neighbours
• Learning how to budget 

Are you ready to leave home?

• Because of the economic problems many people are facing, it's becoming more common to stay in the family home. And lots of HE students are choosing to study locally and remain at home.
• You might be a very sociable, outgoing person but moving out, especially if it's to an area that you're not used to, can be hard. Could you cope in an emergency? Will you be lonely?
• You can find plenty of advice, tips and information from Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity.

The National Youth Advocacy Service can be a good source of advice for young people wanting to leave home. Call them on 0800 61 61 01