Leaving Home

Types of Housing

Everybody leaves home at some time. Well, nearly everyone. It sounds good: no parents telling you what to do, a space of your own, maybe living with friends, having your boyfriend or girlfriend to stay.

You might not have much choice about when you leave but if you leave home without thinking about what's involved, you are much more likely to have problems. You could even become homeless.

So are you ready to go? Think about what is important to you and look through this list to see how practical it is to leave.

Ready or not?

Do you know how to find somewhere to live?
Are you up for doing your own washing and ironing?
Can you name five people you will be able to keep in touch with after you leave home?
Have you enough money for a deposit and the first month's rent?
Do you know how to claim benefits if you need help to pay the rent?
Do you know what furniture you will need to get?
Would you move to an area away from your friends and family?
Will you know where to get help or support if you need it?
If you have a pet would a landlord let you keep it?

A few more things...

How much rent can you afford?
After the rent how much will you have to pay for food, gas, electricity, phone, TV licence fee, and council tax?
How much money will you have to spend on furniture, TV, cookers etc?
Would you want to live alone or share with others?
Who will do your cooking?

Finally, is there anything else you can think you would need to sort out? There is a lot to think about. Friends who have already left home can often offer the best advice. Talking to your family, or going to an advice centre before you leave can also help. You may decide that leaving is not your only option. It might be that with some help you can sort things out with your parents. If not you could speak to a Connexions personal adviser who might be able to help out.

Leaving Care

If you left care on or after 1 October 2001, you may be able to get housing help from social services. They should continue to help you until you turn 21, or until you are 24 if you are still studying full time. The help you get depends on your age and what help social services provide in your area.

Many young people have problems getting help from the council or are sent from one department to another without getting help. If this happens, contact your local housing aid centre or citizens advice bureau immediately. A Connexions personal adviser can also help you deal with the council and may be able to get you the help you need.

Last Updated: 07-Oct-2009