As busy parents who work or need to run errands, it can sometimes be impractical to take your child out with you. But at what age can you leave a child alone? 

What the law says

The law doesn't state that a specific age of child can be left alone, however it is an offence to leave them if it puts them at risk. 

Parents can be prosecuted if a child is left unsupervised ‘in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health’.

Every child is different

As a rule of thumb, children under 12 probably aren't quite mature enough or aware of safety risks to be left home alone. However, children over 12 may also not be ready to be left alone, so it depends on whether both you and they feel confident that they are ready. 

If your child isn't comfortable being left alone at home then they shouldn't be. Even though they are secondary school age they might not be ready to look after themselves or know what to do in an emergency. 

Children who are nervous, anxious or have additional needs might also need to stay with an adult until they are older. 

Leaving a child at home- safety

There are a number of things to consider and work through with your child before you leave them home alone, including:

  • What should they do if there is a knock at the door?
  • Should they answer the phone if it rings?
  • How should they contact you if they're worried?
  • Who else could they contact if they can't get hold of you?
  • What should they avoid doing without you- e.g. using the oven, the hob, lighting candles etc?
  • Are they allowed a friend/ friends to come around?
  • Are doors and windows locked and fire alarms working?
  • Do they have a spare set of keys if they need them?
  • What would they do if they injure themselves?
  • What would they do if they can smell gas?
  • Are they allowed to leave the house while you're gone?

Agree what they'll do while you're gone

This will help both of you feel more comfortable. You could also suggest snacks and drinks they can have if they need them in your absence.

Talk through what to do in an emergency

Although dangerous events are unlikely, children and teens need to know what to do should one occur. Some things to come up with plans for are:

  • Fire. Depending on the layout of your property, tell them where to exit and how to call 999.
  • Burglary. Tell them to leave the house if possible, or if not hide and stay quiet or barricade a door. They should call 999 as soon as they are able, and keep their voice hushed if still in the house.

Online safety while you're out

Online safety is important to discuss with your child in general, so that they are aware of the risks. While you're out of the house, though, ensure that your child isn't accessing anything that might be upsetting for them to see or could put them in danger. Remind them of your house rules for safety online.

Contact them while you're gone

Check in with your child via text or a call while you're out, particularly if this is new for them. Over time they'll probably feel more comfortable and will get used to being alone.

Ensure dangerous objects are out of harm's way

Put away sharp knives, tools and medicines, and if your child has food allergies make sure that nothing that could harm them is available for them to ingest.

Make sure you've also had conversations about the dangers of drugs and alcohol so that they are aware of this before being left home alone. 

If your child is nervous about being left alone for the first time

Try leaving them for a short period of time to start with, for around 15 minutes. If this goes okay then extend the time a little on each occasion until they feel confident about you leaving them. 

Leaving children at home together

If you have more than one child you might consider leaving them together while you leave the house. Bear in mind that while both children are under 16 you're still legally responsible for them.

Things to think about before you leave home:

  • Do your children get on well? Do they argue or fight? If this occurs how would you be aware and help resolve the issue?
  • Does your older child feel comfortable being in charge of their sibling?
  • Does one of your children have additional needs? Consider what would happen if they need support.
  • Does your older child know what to do in an emergency? Would they feel comfortable being in charge of their sibling in a dangerous situation?
  • What will they do while you leave the house? Making a plan can help keep them occupied in a positive way.
  • Check they know who to contact if they need help.
  • Try leaving them for a short amount of time in the first instance, before you build up to longer periods.