England
Youth
Can I Choose Which Parent to Live with in England?
You are allowed to say how living in two homes feels. If you live in England, adults should listen to your views—but you do not have to solve your parents’ disagreement.
Feeling Safe at Home: A Guide for Children in England
You deserve care, safety and someone who listens. If something at home feels frightening or hurts you, you can ask for help—even when the person involved is a parent.
England · Checked 17 September 2026
What should adults do for you?
Adults responsible for you should provide care and protect you from harm. If a court makes decisions about where you live, your needs and safety come first.
You should be able to explain how things feel. You do not have to agree with a parent just to keep them happy.
What if someone says it is just punishment?
You can still tell someone about being hurt, threatened or frightened. England’s rules about physical punishment have limits and can be complicated. You do not need to work out whether a particular act broke the law before asking for support.
Problems can also include not being properly cared for or being frightened by violence between adults.
A small first step
- Choose a safe adult, such as a teacher, school support worker or trusted relative.
- Say what happened in your own words. “I am scared to go home” is enough to begin.
- If the first person does not help, tell another safe adult.
Other places to talk
Childline provides support for children and young people. You can ask how private the conversation will be before sharing something difficult.
Local council children’s services deal with concerns that a child is being harmed. A safe adult can help you contact them. If someone is in immediate danger, emergency services can help.
This guide explains general rules and services. It does not assess your individual case.
Official guidance and sources
Information checked on 17 September 2026.
Based on the original article by Malin Bergström.
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