Everyone reaches a point in their lives when they consider whether or not to leave home. There can be a variety of reasons to leave. Some might be good, others bad.
If you are thinking of leaving because of problems at home try to sort it out before things get out of control. No one is telling you to stay in an impossible situation, but leaving home is not an easy option.
You could try:
talking through your problems with family (or friends) and explain how you feel.
working out a compromise so you can continue living together.
If this doesn’t work speak to a Connexions personal adviser who can talk through your problems. You can also try help lines such as:
Connexions Direct 080 800 13-2-19
Shelter 0808 800 4444
Childline 0800 1111
Somerset Social Services (Children's Social Care) may also be help in some circumstances. For local offices phone 0845 3459122 or see the Your Town/Area section of this site. In emergencies, outside of office hours, contact the emergency duty team on 01458 253241 or through any police station.
Under 16
If you are under 16 you can't normally leave home unless you are experiencing serious problems such as:
abuse
violence
If this is the case contact Social Services (Children's Social Care) or your Connexions personal adviser.
Aged 16 - 17
If you are 16 or 17 you can move out if your parents/guardians agree to it. If they don't, and you leave anyway, you could be reported to the police as a missing person.
Get organised
If you decide to leave home, try to sort out things before you go. The more you can plan, and prepare, the better chance you have of making a success of leaving home.
www.housemate.org.uk has information and advice about leaving home including a checklist to help you decide whether you are really prepared for moving out.
Left home or run away?
Running away is the last resort but, if you have done so, there are ways of getting advice or messages home for family and carers.
Runaway Helpline www.runawayhelpline.org.uk – free confidential help and advice for under 18s – helpline 0808 800 70 70
Missing People www.missingpeople.org.uk – help and advice for missing people over 18. Includes message home service so you send a message to family or carers. Call 0800 700 740
