If you've got it in your head that you want to leave home then here's a few things to think about before you take the plunge.
Money
Work out how much money you will need to live on and how you are going to get it before you move out - i.e. will you have a job by then? Remember there is a difference between survival and actually having a bit of a life. You need to think about what you can afford, how much rent will be, how much the deposit is, how much you'll need for food and bills.
There is help available if you are studying or on a low or no income, and help with housing costs called Housing Benefit.
Sharing
This can be when you make friends that will last for the rest of your life. It can also be a complete nightmare! To minimise the risk of the nightmare scenario, here are some things to think about before you take the plunge....
Moving in with a friend - Friends are usually who we mess about with and turn to when things go wrong. But this can change when living together 24/7 - you won't feel like messing around all the time when you are arguing over whose turn it is to do the dishes that have been sitting piled up by the sink for three weeks!
Moving in with a partner - This can put a big strain on a young relationship. Even though you get on really well going out together, living together with all the everyday worries and hassle can be really hard.
Moving into a room in a shared flat - Always a risk moving in with relative strangers, but often a risk worth taking. A mix of people and personalities can be anything from great to gross. It's a good way to move on without living completely on your own, but you need to work at it too, fitting in and makes allowances for other. Make sure that you get on with the people on the flat and if you feel unsure or not safe then don't move in.
Neighbours - Noisy or anti-social neighbours accounts for around half of all ASBOs. The fact is you don't know what your neighbours are like until you move in, or they may change while you are there. Don't let them get you down. Take a look at the Shelter Website for more information.
Studying
If you are going to study elsewhere (either college or university) then contact their accommodation department once you have a place on the course. They may have student halls or a list of places to rent.
In need
You may also receive help if you can be classed as 'in need', which means that your health and development will suffer if you do not get advise and accommodation. You will also be considered 'in need' if you have a disability. Get in touch with your social work department (part of the council) for more information.
More help and information
Young Scot InfoLine - Phone 0808 801 0338 (Mon to Fri 10am - 6pm) for more information on money or housing. it's free to call from your mobile and landline.
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