Parents thinking of letting their children out on their own are being urged to follow the NSPCC's advice. 

Knowing when is the right time to let your children out on their own can be a difficult choice for many parents. 

Whether its playing out with friends, walking to school or coming home from an after school club there comes a time when every child is left to go out without being accompanied by an adult. 

The average age parents allow their children to go out of the house alone is roughly 10.7 years, but many parents don't feel comfortable letting their children stray to far from the local neighbourhood. 

Other factors may influence parents decision on when to let their child out home alone, such as the child's maturity and the local area. 

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Michelle Barry, NSPCC Schools Coordinator for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has offered her advice for parents on this issue. 

She said: “It’s likely that as children get older they will want to explore going out by themselves or with their friends. 

"It can be helpful to find out a few basic facts to help make the right decision.

“This might include where they want to go, who they’re going with, how far, what time they’ll be out until, and what they want to do.

“You'll also need to ensure that they can confidently recall their personal information, in case of an emergency. 

"Children should know their full name, address, and the phone numbers of two trusted adults. They should also know how to cross the road safely."

Fears for parents include traffic accidents, stranger danger, and the risk of injury while playing — all of which children should be fully briefed on the best course of action should any of the above happen.  

Its also worth making sure that children are familiar with their local area - stopping them getting lost or confused and allowing them to quickly pin-point their location in an emergency.