Advice if you might become homeless

When to leave home is a big decision that should not be taken quickly. Although leaving home will give you more freedom, it also means you will have responsibilities that you probably haven’t dealt with before. These include:

• paying rent and dealing with a landlord or housemates
• choosing utility companies and paying the bills
• maintaining and cleaning your accommodation
• shopping and cooking for yourself
• looking after your health, wellbeing and security

Leaving your parental or guardians’ home at a young age, especially if you have nowhere to go, should the last option that you should consider. This could lead to homelessness.

Contact us if you want advice on leaving home.

If you feel unsafe at home

Call 999 if you are in any immediate danger at home.

If you are living in fear because someone is being violent or abusive towards you, seek help immediately. There are a number of agencies who can assist you. You can find their details below.

Childline is a free 24-hour support helpline for children and young people. 

Telephone: 0800 1111

Women’s Aid is a free 24-hour helpline for victims of domestic abuse. 

Telephone: 0808 2000 247

Shelter has an emergency helpline if you have nowhere to stay tonight, or are at risk of harm or abuse in your home. Call on Monday to Friday from 8am until 6pm.

Telephone: 0808 800 4444

Other advice and support organisations

There are many organisations which support young people. You can find their details below:

• Jobcentreplus – offers advice and information about finding a job
• The Foyer Federation – offers support for homeless young people
• Centrepoint – offers housing for homeless young people
• Talk to Frank – offers advice and information on drugs and their effects
• Victim Support – offers advice and support for crime victims
• Shelter – offers advice and support relating to housing and homelessness