Is there a legal age a child can be left at home in the UK?

There's no legal age limit, but you can be prosecuted if you're placing the child in danger by leaving them alone. If your child is mature enough to be left alone, then it is fine.

There are more details here http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/parents/yourchildsheal...

It's not illegal but it's not recommended

A lot can happen in 3 hours, plus you must leave strict instructions on what the child has to do if the phone rings, or if someone comes to the door

Do they answer the phone, do they open the door ?

Also is this just a one off, because I'm sure most of us have left a 13 year old home alone for a short period just once, but not on a regular basis

Only you can decide whether it is safe,

Legally and technically what you propose is fine , as long as nothing untoward happens ..

The problem is that if something does happen , then you would be in trouble -- your judgement and your actions would necessarily be found wanting and at fault , simply because of the outcome .

So you'd better be sure of your 13 year old ,and the arguability of your own actions whilst out of the home.

I am assuming this is in the school holidays? if the child is fine with it,it should be ok but give a little talk about answering the door,not saying they are alone if the phone rings,being careful if they use the oven etc. It is common sense but teenagers do not always use common sense.

No legal age limit, see the link. It really depends on the child and there are plenty of kids who come home from school to empty houses because parents are at work.

Yes.

A 12 year old can legally babysit their brothers and sisters.

If your too immature or to scared to be left alone get your parents to put you to after school club if they'll take you. Usually only do upto 11 in my area but if your immature you'd fit in.

you *** would be indoors by 9 o'clock not still out and 1 to 3am a 13 years old is not responsible. you're family need to know where you are in-case something happens they would need a landline phone number so they can get in touch with the person

who is talking about clubbiing? you don't say what you're doing muppet in you're description it does not matter what you're doing, your butt should be home and getting some sleep and doing you're homework not being out until 1 and 3 in the morning.

a 13 mature please i have more mature butter in my fridge no 13 year old are mature those they like to think they are.

There is no legal age limit for this. Should the child come to harm the parent(s) involved would be in trouble.

Its 13 but thats if they are a sensible and stable child that doesn't get scared and is happy to be alone. If they report you or have a fright you could get in trouble. If someone is near to them then it should be ok.

Since 13 yrs old is old enough to legally babysit other children,then of course it is fine.