DEAR DEIDRE: I DESPERATELY want to go and live with my dad, but my mum has cut all ties with him and says I can’t see him any more.
I’m a 14-year-old boy. My parents split up six years ago. My mum met someone new and has since remarried but I can’t really stand my stepdad.
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We are always arguing and we don’t have anything in common. My mum just ignores me when I try to talk to her.
I wonder whether I should just try to contact my dad anyway. I want to go and live with him as soon as I can.
DEIDRE SAYS: I understand it’s hard growing up without your dad but it can be complicated.
Maybe he would find it hard to provide a home for you. It’s possible your mum genuinely feels that contact with him would be damaging for you.
Start by talking to Childline, online or over the phone (childline.org.uk, 0800 1111). They can help you see what’s best longer term.