Alex's Answer

Can I leave home at 15 because I don’t get on with my mother?

Your Question

Can I leave home at 15 because I don’t get on with my mother

Answer

Thank you for getting in touch with Ask Alex. We understand how difficult it can be to talk about what is going on for you so well done for reaching out. 

In Ireland, from the age of 16, you can move out of home with your parent’s permission, but it is really important to think about this deeply and to make sure you have a safe and secure environment to move into if you do decide to leave. If you leave home before you are 18 without your parents’ consent, you are considered homeless or at risk, and Tusla may be asked to intervene. 

Lots of young people can have problems at home that can make it hard to feel comfortable living there. Sometimes it is possible to improve the relationship you have with the people you live with by talking to them and making compromises. We do understand that this can be very difficult to do.  Perhaps finding another person to talk to about the difficulties you are having with your mother may help, like a trusted adult or older sibling. 

Sometimes taking a break from your living situation can help, by temporarily moving in with extended family or other trusted adults. It is important to think about the effect this may have on your relationships with your family and the impact this may have on how you feel about things too.  

If you feel unsafe at home, there is support out there for you from various agencies. They can help you to find a safer environment to live in with the resources you need to continue with schooling and to maintain your health and wellbeing. Follow this link https://changingfutures.ie/contact if you feel that you are in an unsafe situation at home. 

Remember, whatever is happening for you, Childline is here 24 hours a day, every day all through the year, through web chats (https://www.childline.ie/) and phone calls (1800 66 66 66) to help you find a solution for your situation. Our services are completely free, confidential, and non-judgmental.    

We hope this has helped. 

Take care, 

Alex. 

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