If you're thinking about leaving home, consider your options and think about whether it's practical to leave.
Think about:
- are you old enough to consider leaving home?
- do you know how to find somewhere to live?
- have you got enough money for a deposit and for the first month's rent?
- what furniture will you need?
- do you know if you're eligible for any benefits or support, or where to find help?
- how much will you have to pay for food, Council Tax, electricity, gas and a TV licence?
There's a lot to think about, but there are support services that can help answer your questions.
To work out your best option, make sure you talk to:
- friends who may already be living independently
- local youth workers at youth centres
- someone you trust for advice
- one of the Dorset youth advice and information centres
Citizens Advice and Shelter offer free, independent youth advice and information on housing to help you understand your rights and options.
We offer support if you find yourself homeless and we also have a range of housing services.
Renting from a private landlord
Finding a home you can afford to rent doesn't mean finding a council or housing association property. There are many properties in Dorset that are available to rent from a private landlord.
A private landlord is someone who owns one or more properties that they rent out to tenants.
Why rent with a private landlord
There are advantages to renting privately:
- there are no waiting lists so you'll be able to move in quickly
- you can choose where you live and you can move to a different area if you want
- there are different types of property you can rent, from one bedroom studio flats to houses big enough for large families
- the properties are usually well decorated and carpeted; this is not always the case with social housing
- the properties often come with a fridge, freezer and washing machine
- if you're on a low income you may be entitled to Housing Benefit which will cover some or all of your rent
Where to find a property
You can find properties to rent by:
- searching for local letting agencies online
- checking websites such as:
- checking local newspapers
View the property
Once you find a suitable property you'll need to go and have a look at it.
It's a good idea to take a list of things to check so you don't forget about anything when you're there.
We can help you
Find out about rent in advance and deposit schemes if you need help renting a property.
Dorset Nightstop
Action for Children's Dorset Nightstop provides emergency accommodation for homeless young people aged between 16 and 25. Young people can stay in the home of a carefully recruited, fully checked and trained volunteer, supported by project staff. Accommodation is on a one-night-at-a-time basis, for a maximum of 3 nights.
If you find yourself homeless, Nightstop can offer a safe and friendly environment, giving agencies time to find a long-term solution for you.