Do you leave your child at home alone?

Are you aware of the guidelines that are in place?

Did you know that you can be prosecuted for neglect?

The BBC carried out a freedom of information act request by contacting 43 police forces across the country to find out how many arrests had been made due to people leaving their children on their own. 510 arrests were made last year and the ages of the children varied from 6 weeks-15 years.

Tim Haynes was arrested for leaving his young child in his car whilst he popped into a chemist for 5 minutes. When the case reached court it was dismissed but it took over a year to clear his name.

The law is very unclear. There is no minimum age limit that is stated as when it is safe to leave a child alone. The law only states that it is illegal to leave a child if they are at risk. This is not very helpful to families and the former Liberal Democrat John Hemming is campaigning for a change in the law so that it states a specific age for families to adhere to.

I think specific ages would help (and be) more of a guidance

The NSPCC have set out some advice and guidelines to help families when deciding to leave their children home alone. They believe that parents are the best judges about when the time is right.

Babies and toddlers should never be left alone
Children under 12 should not be left for long periods
Children under 16 should not be left overnight
Parents can be prosecuted for neglect if the children are deemed at risk
If the child feels uncomfortable with being left on their own they shouldnt be left
Any children with additional needs should have their needs considered
If siblings are left together what would happen if they have a falling out would they still be safe?

The NSPCC go on to suggest some guidelines to help families make the decision.

Is your child mature for their age and do they do as they are told?
Could they make themselves something to eat and use the microwave or cooker?
What would they do in an emergency e.g. flooded bathroom or power cut?
Would they answer the door or the phone?
If there was a problem would they contact you or another family member? Are these contact details accessible for them?
Would they feel happy about being left?

Last year the NSPCC received over 2500 calls from adults worried about children being left alone.

For more information on the guidelines and advice set out by the NSPCC visit https://www.nspcc.org.uk/

If you are worried about a child email help@nspcc.org.uk or call 0808 800 5000

For non-judgmental advice contact Family Lives www.familylives.org.uk or call 0808 800 2222

Sources:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-35800870

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/