When things get really bad at home, running away can feel like the only way out.
But before you do, why not talk to someone about your options? You can do it anonymously and for free by calling Childline or the National Missing Persons Runaway Helpline (numbers below).
Being homeless is scary, cold and dangerous. Wouldn't you rather find out the alternatives before giving it a go?
If you feel you just can't stay at home, these are your options:
• If you're 16 or 17, homeless, and in danger, Social Services have to provide you with accommodation, usually in a hostel, sharing with other homeless people.
• If you're under 16 and leave home, your parents are still legally responsible for you.If you're staying with another adult they can apply for a residence order for you to stay with them if there's a clear reason why you can't return home.
• If you're under 16, by law you've got to go to school, you can't claim benefits and you can't work full-time. Many young people in this situation end up sleeping rough on the streets.
There are also services aimed at preventing homelessness, by helping families sort out the reasons why teens want to leave home. So it's worth talking to social services before making any decisions.
Get help
• Childline
0800 1111, childline.org.uk
• Shelter
0808 800 4444 shelter.org.uk/knowyourrights
• National Missing Persons Runaway Helpline
0808 800 70 70 (free & confidential), runawayhelpline.org.uk
• Centrepoint
020 7426 5300 centrepoint.org.uk
• Crisis
020 7665 8300 crisis.org.uk
• Get Connected
080 8808 4994 getconnected.org.uk
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