Leaving home and young people
This content applies to Scotland only.
Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England
Leaving home can be an exciting and liberating experience, but it can also be stressful and difficult. Being well prepared can help the process go smoothly so that you avoid ending up in unsuitable accommodation or, worse, finding yourself with nowhere to live at all.
These pages contain advice and information on preparing to leave home, and include links to other organisations which can help you.
How to leave home
Leaving home is a big step in anyone’s life. This page looks at some of the things young people should think about and highlights the key problems they may face.
Budgeting
Drawing up a budget can help you keep an eye on your day-to-day spending. This page outlines some budgeting tips that will help you in your new home.
Managing your money
Whatever your income, you’ll have to make sure your money will cover your housing costs and your living expenses. This page covers the basics of managing your money.
Short term housing options
Need to find accommodation, but not sure if you’re ready for the responsibility of your own place? These short-term accommodation options may help you.
Longer term housing options
On this page you’ll find out about the long-term housing options that are available for young people, from renting to buying your own home.
Running away
Get help and advice about running away and who to contact if you are thinking about running away.
Help from the council
Got nowhere to stay or been staying with friends, then you can make a homeless application and get help from the council. This section explains what help from the council you can expect and what to do if the council won't help.
Mediation and young people
Mediation can help you resolve problems that you are having at home. A mediator won’t tell you what to do; they help you and your parents talk through your problems and reach an agreement.
Leaving care
If you’re leaving care then you can get extra help from your council. This page explains your rights and how you can get help if you’re a care leaver.
Young parents
If you are a young parent thinking of leaving home, find out more about the different housing options that might be suitable for you and your children.
Young disabled people
If you're young and have a disability this page explains more about your housing options and what you can do to prepare to leave home.
Young LGBT people
If you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender and you’re homeless or thinking of leaving home this page explains your housing options and what you can do.
Useful links for young people
If you're having problems there are lots of organisations you can talk to that can help. This page has links to people you might want to get in touch with about your situation.
