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Leaving home is a big step. Preparation is the key to avoiding problems further down the line.
You can  download a checklist with useful things to think about before you move.
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 as well as all the good things. 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.
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When can I leave home?
Once you are 16, you can leave home without your parents' or guardian's permission. 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 or a relative. There are also organisations that can help you.
If you're under 16 and thinking of leaving home, you should contact Childline on 0800 1111. Childline is open 24 hours a day. Childline advisers can help with many problems - not just housing.
You can also contact the Children's Law Centre on 0808 808 5678. The Children's Law Centre can give you advice on your rights in Northern Ireland.
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I've decided to leave home - what next?
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.
Contact an advice centre to discuss your options. The more you know about your housing rights and the options open to you, the easier your move will be.
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Sort out your finances
Start saving. 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. You may also need to buy furniture or other household goods.
Draw up a budget. This will help you work out what the accommodation you can realistically afford.
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Find somewhere to live
Find new accommodation before you move out. You may think you can sleep on a friend's sofa but the sofa won't feel very comfortable after a few days. Finding suitable accommodation could take longer than you think.
There are a number of short term and long term housing options open to you.
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What will I need to take with me?
Depending on the place you are moving into, you may need many new things for your home. You can download a checklist of things you'll need.
Ask your friends and family if they have any spare household items. Then check out:
- second-hand shops,
- charity shops,
- furniture projects,
- car boot sales,
- jumble sales;
- advertisements in the local paper,
- advertisements in supermarkets and newsagents.
It's likely to be much cheaper than buying everything new.
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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. Back to top
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