Half term may feel like a short space of time for some.

But many parents and guardians may be agonising over whether to leave their child alone during the day or to find alternative childcare arrangements while they are away from the home.

In some cases where a child is placed at risk of harm by being left without supervision adults can be prosecuted for neglect, so it is surprising to many to learn that there’s no legal minimum age when a child can be left home alone.

The decision on whether to do so rests entirely with the parent or guardian.

Regardless of their age, it is important to note that if a child feels uncomfortable, then they should never be left alone.

If parents or carers feel confident that a child can be left alone, that he or she is happy with the decision and that the child has the knowledge of what to do in an emergency, then parents or carers can leave them unsupervised.

More advice can be found on the NSPCC’s website, while the NSPCC’s helpline is available to offer support on 0808 800 5000.

Des Mannion (Head of Service, NSPCC Cymru)