If a child is not ready to be left alone it can be a sad, lonely, frightening and dangerous experience. There are many possible risks, both physical and emotional which could affect your child in a negative way. In addition, the level of responsibility which is given to the child to look after themself and to manage somehow whatever may happen is impossible for a younger child. Even relatively ordinary things that happen in life such as hunger, a storm, the phone ringing or someone coming to the front door can cause problems. It is rarely, if ever, possible to leave your children and assume that someone will look out for them if necessary, as may be the case in some communities and cultures.
If they are alerted, the police and social services may take action if they think that a child has been neglected by being left alone. Neglect happens when a parent or carer fails to meet children's basic needs of food, shelter, security, attention or protection from exposure to danger.
The NSPCC has issued guidelines advising that children under the age of 13 should not be left alone. While this recommendation does not have the force of the law it is suggested as good practice. Children under this age do not have the maturity to manage the responsibility of being left alone and this may be particularly so if they are physically disabled or have a learning difficulty.
As a young person reaches adolescence, leaving them alone after school, for an evening or during the day is less of a concern as long as they are prepared and aware of what to do if they are worried or need anything. So preparation for this is necessary. If you feel your child has the maturity and ability to deal with this, it is important that they know where you are and who to contact in an emergency.
In summary
- Never leave a young child alone. Think about shared babysitting and discuss this with neighbours, friends, relatives or other parents you have contact with
- Children under 13 years of age should not be left alone. Find out more about after-school clubs, holiday playschemes and childminders
- Leaving a child alone places them at risk of harm. If you are worried about a child being left alone talk to the parent, a health visitor, teacher or a social worker. If there is an immediate risk of harm to a child, call the police
- It can be a lonely and frightening experience for a child to be left alone. Have a plan for who you could contact for emergency care if your childcare breaks down
For further information and advice look at our 'Useful websites' section on this page.
Helpline telephone numbers
NSPCC: 0808 808 5000
National Council for One Parent Families: 0800 018 5026
Child Accident Prevention Trust: 020 7608 3828
South Gloucestershire Council's Children's Assessment Team: 01454 868501/2
Avon and Somerset Constabulary: 0845 456 7000