Leaving home is one of the most important moves into independence you will make. It is vital that you plan for it as much as possible in order to avoid the possibility of things going wrong. All too often young people rush into getting their own place and find out that they weren't prepared for the realities of running their own home. This is one common cause of homelessness.

The biggest test will be your ability to manage your finances. Not only do you need to make sure you have enough money coming in, you also have to take responsibility for paying your bills on time.

These are the regular payments you need to be able to budget for:

• Rent/Mortgage
• Council tax
• Gas and electric bills
• Water bills
• Phone bills
• TV licence
• Food
• Travel expenses
• Any debt payments such as loans and credit cards

You can download our budgeting sheet to find out if you will have enough money to survive.

For more information download our guide on deciding to leave home (1.7MB, PDF) (You will need Adobe Reader to view this file).

If you need any help please contact Amy Hill, YHN Development Worker, by email or call 01908 317174.

Alternatively, our address is Youth Housing Network, Unit K, The Agora Centre, Wolverton, MK12 5LG.