ASK THE EXPERT
WHEN IS IT OK TO LEAVE MY CHILDREN HOME ALONE?
Q DURING the summer holidays I’ll need to leave my children, aged 11 and 13, home alone while I’m at work. Is this legal, and could I occasionally leave them overnight as well?
A CHRIS CLOKE, NSPCC head of safeguarding in communities, says: “Odd as it may seem, there isn’t a set legal age for leaving children home alone. The rate at which children mature really varies so it would be almost impossible to come up with a one-size fits all law.
“It therefore feels most appropriate to leave the choice to parents who know their children best. This doesn’t mean there are no laws at all on leaving children.
“If a parent or carer has placed their child at risk by leaving them, they can be prosecuted for neglect.
“At the NSPCC we believe no child should ever be left at home alone if they don’t feel comfortable with it, regardless of their age.
“Usually, children under the age of 12 are rarely mature enough to cope in an emergency, so shouldn’t be left for a long time, and children under the age of 16 shouldn’t be left alone overnight.
“We recommend parents talk to their children to listen to any worries they have and ask what could put them at ease.
“Once you’ve had a conversation, if you both agree they’re ready, it can also put your mind at ease to make some final checks – is there a spare set of keys, can your child contact you, and who lives nearby that they trust and could contact for help.
“If you’re leaving a younger child with an older sibling, think about what may happen if they fall out – would they both be safe?
“If one of your children has additional needs, we recommend considering these when leaving them at home alone or with an older sibling. Our guidance is that generally no child should be left in the care of a young person or sibling under the age of 16.
“It makes sense to err on the side of caution. In the long holidays, rather than leave a child home alone, is it possible to share childcare with families, friends and neighbours? Also consider play schemes and holiday clubs.”
■ ANYONE who wants to talk this through can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.”