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Getting ready to leave home

This content applies to Scotland only.

Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. This page applies to Scotland only. Get advice relating to England

Leaving home is a massive step to take, and the key to avoiding problems further down the line is preparation. This page looks at some of the things you should think about.

You can download a checklist with more useful things to think about here.

Should I leave home?

Don't feel you have to move before you're ready, unless you feel unsafe at home. Remember to consider all the down sides of having your own place (rent, bills, no-one to do your washing) as well as all the good things and if you know anyone that has recently left home, talk to them about their experiences.

Having your own home is a big responsibility: if you don't think you're ready for it or you don't think you can afford it, stay where you are!

If you're not getting on with your parents, try reading our page on living with your parents - this has advice on improving family relationships so you don't have to move out.

When can I leave home?

Once you are 16, you can leave home without your parents' or guardian's permission.

What if I'm under 16?

If you're under 16, you don't have the right to leave home yet. But if you are unhappy, there are people who will listen and help you. If you don't want to talk to anyone in your family, you could speak to a teacher, a friend's parent, a relative or a youth group leader. There are also lots of organisations that can help you, including ChildLine .

I've decided to leave home - what next?

Talk it over

Talk to your family and explain your reasons for wanting to leave. They may be able to help you find a new home and help you get together all the things you'll need to live on your own, or even lend you money for a deposit.
Visit a housing aid centre or advice service to discuss your options. The more you know about your housing rights and the options open to you, the easier your move will be. Use the Advice Services Directory to find a housing aid centre or advice service in your area.

Sort out your finances

Start saving up. There are lots of things you'll need to buy or spend money on when you have your own place. If you are moving to rented accommodation, you'll probably need to pay a deposit and a month's rent in advance. Or you may need to buy furniture or other household goods for your home.
Draw up budget. This will help you work out what kind of accommodation you can realistically afford.
Find out about benefits, grants and loans you may be entitled to. Read the page on budgeting to find out more.

Find somewhere to live

Most importantly, find new accommodation before you move out. You may think you can kip on a mate's sofa until you get sorted, but finding suitable accommodation could take longer than you think, and that sofa won't feel very comfortable after a few days. It won't be long before you'll start to feel in the way and in need of your own space. Read the pages on short term and long term housing options to help you decide what kind of accommodation to look for.

Whilst you're looking for somewhere to live it's a good idea to think about who you want to live with as well, whether it's friends, strangers or a boyfriend or girlfriend.

What will I need to take with me?

Depending on the kind of place you are moving into, you may need a lot of new things for your home. You can download a checklist of things to take with you here.

Finding cheap furniture and household goods

Ask your friends and family if they have any household items to spare, then check out:

second-hand shops
charity shops
furniture projects
car boot sales
jumble sales
ads in the local paper
ads in supermarkets and newsagents.

You may find some bargains, and it's likely to be much cheaper than buying everything new.

You could also try checking for free items available in your area on www.freecycle.org. For low cost flooring or carpeting, contact www.sprucecarpets.org.uk.

What if I can't afford the things I need?

If you don't have any money to buy furniture or other essential items, you may be able to apply for a budgeting loan to help spread the cost.
If you are leaving care, disabled or have young children, you may be able to get a community care grant to help with the expenses of setting up home.
If you are on benefits or a low income, you can ask to be referred to a furniture project, which can help you kit out your new home for free. Find out more at your nearest advice centre.