Thinking About Moving Out?

If you have moved out of home, or are living independently (whether or not for the first time) this section will cover some of the basic things about having a place of your own, and also where to get tenant support from if you need it.

If you are looking for a place to live, or you have been kicked out, or have to leave, or are homeless, look in the homeless section.

Most people will some day move away from their family home, and many people do not have much (or any) choice in this. However, living on your own isn't always easy - especially if you are living on benefits, or are under 18 (as the law puts restrictions on benefits for example). If you are under 16 the law says you cannot live alone.

So if you want to get a place of your own because you can't get along with your parents, try to sort things out with them first. Ask someone that both you and your parents respect (maybe a relative or family friend) to mediate between you and them or contact your local housing office and ask if there is a local mediation scheme. Stay calm, and try and work out a compromise on the things you disagree about. Living on your own and being responsible for everything yourself can be worse than living by your parents' rules!