Kirstie Allsopp, the popular presenter of Location, Location, Location, recently shared that she was contacted by social services after allowing her 15-year-old son, Oscar, to travel around Europe without adult supervision.
The journey, which lasted three weeks, took Oscar and his 16-year-old friend through major cities including Paris, Amsterdam, and Barcelona.
Despite Allsopp’s pride in her son’s independence, the trip prompted a referral to social services, leaving the TV personality “sick” and “cross” when Kensington and Chelsea Council opened an inquiry.
The issue arose after Allsopp shared details of the trip on social media, aiming to highlight the importance of trust and self-reliance in young people.
Kirstie Allsopp Defends Decision After Social Services Probe Into Son’s Solo Europe Trip
She emphasized that allowing such experiences helps children develop confidence in navigating the world.
However, her decision triggered concern, leading to social services investigating whether appropriate safeguards were in place for Oscar’s travel.
Allsopp defended her decision, noting that in countries like Switzerland and Japan, children are encouraged to be self-sufficient from a young age.
She expressed her frustration with the UK’s increasingly risk-averse culture, arguing that restrictions could do more harm than the freedom of learning through real-world experiences.
Kirstie Allsopp expressed her shock at receiving a call from a social worker and the possibility of an open file remaining until her son turns 25 if further concerns are raised.
While some praised Kirstie Allsopp for empowering her son, others questioned whether it was responsible to allow a teenager such independence.
Responding to critics, Allsopp doubled down on her stance, stating that she would not have agreed if she thought Oscar was unprepared.
She maintained that the decision was well-considered and rooted in trust, noting that the trip was planned and funded by her son.
Kensington and Chelsea Council reiterated that safeguarding children remains their top priority and that all referrals are taken seriously, underscoring their statutory responsibilities.
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