Independent Living

The impact of living leaving home for the first time

If you are supporting a young person who is leaving home and living on their own, or with friends for the first time, it is important to understand that it can be both an exciting and worrying time. Young people may be worried about being able to look after themselves, if they will have enough money or getting used to their new home. It is important that you listen to their needs, worries, and support them to explore what new skills they may need. 

Everyone has reasons for wanting to live on their own. These could be:

• wanting to live independently
• not getting on with your family
• being forced to leave
• moving away to university

It may be useful to explore the ‘Learn More’ articles with the young person you are supporting. 

Easy Read: Housing – Our Easy Read Guide

Moving to university

Lots of young people experience struggles while at university. Student Minds and Young Minds offer valuable resources for young people.

Universities offer their own wellbeing services to support their students, so if your child is struggling at uni, this could be helpful for them. You can find out what support is on offer at their university on the Student Space website.